Digital microfluidics

Abstract

Beginning with Lippmann's observations over a century ago, the fundamental understanding of fluid actuation, due to electrical forces, has evolved significantly. Theoretical interpretation of electrowetting experimentation, by physicists and material chemists, has provided significant insight into the contributing mechanisms involved at the 3-phase interface. Thus, our understanding of voltage-induced fluid dynamics has enabled technologists in chemistry and biology to apply the fundamentals in the creation of lowcost efficient analytical systems. Due to advances in manufacturing technologies and miniaturisation of electronic components, electrostatic-driven droplet manipulation has undergone a significant transformation, to the point where sensor integration and droplet routing schemes are being devised for more efficient operational protocols. The functional uses of DMF systems have thus far been proven in a limited set of areas. The scope for translating this technology into other sectors will be a task accomplished by innovative multidisciplinary teams, once widely accepted as a commercially user-friendly technology in healthcare and life-sciences applications, for which a concentrated effort is currently being exerted.