Microfluidic apparatus having an optimized electrowetting surface and related systems and methods
US10799865B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 27, 2016 |
| Grant date | Oct 13, 2020 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 15, 2038 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB01L2400/0427
- WIPO fieldBiotechnology
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Microfluidic devices having an electrowetting configuration and an optimized droplet actuation surface are provided. The devices include a conductive substrate having a dielectric layer, a hydrophobic layer covalently bonded to the dielectric layer, and a first electrode electrically coupled to the dielectric layer and configured to be connected to a voltage source. The microfluidic devices also include a second electrode, optionally included in a cover, configured to be connected to the voltage source. The hydrophobic layer features self-associating molecules covalently bonded to a surface of the dielectric layer in a manner that produces a densely-packed monolayer that resists intercalation and or penetration by polar molecules or species. Also provided are microfluidic devices having an electrowetting configuration that further include a section or module having a dielectrophoresis configuration; systems that include any of the microfluidic devices in combination with an aqueous droplet and a fluidic medium immiscible with the medium of the aqueous droplet; related kits; and methods of manipulating droplets, optionally containing micro-objects such as biological cells, within th…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.