Microfluidics technology for nanoparticles and equipment

Abstract

"Microfluidics" is a generalized term denoting both, the science studying the conduct of fluids (gases and liquids) through microchannels and the manufacturing technology of micro miniature devices containing chambers and tunnels through which fluids flow or are confined to flow. Advancement in the field of nanotechnology has emphasized on the use of microfluidics due to several benefits associated with this technology in comparison to conventional techniques of nanoparticle fabrication. Microfluidic reactors have offered a vast range of advantages including better controllability and uniformity of nanoparticle characteristics. Potential applications of nanoparticles have made them an undeniable tool in the field of pharmaceuticals. Though nanoparticles are foreseen to overcome the challenges in effective delivery of therapeutic agents, the drawbacks associated with traditional preparation techniques has resulted in slow translation from research to clinical applications. Production of nanoparticles in commercial scale is an existing active challenge which could be overcome by the exciting opportunities of microfluidic technology to develop easy, safe and cost-effective drug delivery systems with good reproducibility. This chapter encompasses an overview of microfluidics technology in the production of nanoparticles and the use of micro devices as tools for investigation.