Microsystem for particle counting and sizing with tunable sensitivity and throughput

Abstract

We present the first comprehensive study of integrating hydrodynamic focusing to provide tunable sensitivity and throughput in impedance cytometry. This interplay has never been investigated with respect to particle counting and sizing performance. Our microfluidic lab-on-a-chip (LOC) differs from previous designs in the added tunability while featuring simpler fabrication. Here, we demonstrate a 2.7-fold increase in sensitivity with hydrodynamic focusing. Systematic studies of the coupling between integrated LOC components enable optimal utilization of microsystem capabilities.