Continuous Dielectrophoretic Molecular Separations

For over two decades dielectrophoretic forces have been used to trap proteins in a batch process. Here, we present a novel approach that permits continuous molecular separations using dielectrophoretic forces. A solution is flown through a microfluidic channel across which an electric field gradient is applied perpendicular to the flow. In aqueous solutions the solute is transported to the low-field side of the channel. Immediately following the electric field, the channel is split and the enriched solution (from the low field side) and the depleted fluid (high field side) are separated. In addition to detailing how the chip is fabricated we will present results showing the separations efficiency as a function of field strength.