Aggregation profile characterisation in dielectrophoretic structures using bacteria and submicron latex particles.

A novel quantitative characterisation method for the measurement of anomalous low frequency aggregation processes on dielectrophoresis electrodes has been developed. Experimental evidence is provided for the relationship between the aggregation effect and AC electro-osmotical fluid motion theory. The aggregation profile dependence for E.coli bacteria, as a function of frequency and applied field, has been quantitatively examined. Additional experimental observations of the aggregation profiles of latex particles with dimensions of hundreds of nanometres, also confirm the relationship between this aggregation effect and the mentioned fluid motion theory.