A micromachined Stoneley acoustic wave system for continuous flow particle manipulation in microfluidic channels

Particle manipulation utilizing interface acoustic waves (IAWs) is proposed for the first time. An IAW-based manipulation system has been designed, micromachined and tested. This work addresses the issue of particle manipulation in microfluidic channels with particular emphasis on particles with submicron dimensions. The subject is of significant relevance for a range of bio-technological applications and in particular for lab-on-chip ones. Submicron particle manipulation in continuous flow has been demonstrated.