Methods for performing microfluidic sampling
First Claim
1. A method for sampling a liquid flow, comprising the steps of:
- (a) supplying a continuous liquid flow from a continuous flow fluid input source to a surface along a first flow path; and
(b) sampling the continuous liquid flow by performing an electric field-based technique to split off a sample droplet from a portion of the liquid flow, whereby the sample droplet is distinct from the liquid flow and controllable independently of the liquid flow, wherein the electric field-based technique is performed by providing a set of electrodes on the surface and selectively biasing the set of electrodes, whereby the sample droplet is formed on one of the set of electrodes.
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Abstract
Methods for sampling a liquid flow are provided. The method includes supplying a continuous liquid flow from a continuous flow fluid input source to a surface along a first flow path. The method additionally includes sampling the continuous liquid flow by performing an electric field-based technique to split off a sample droplet from a portion of the liquid flow, whereby the sample droplet is distinct from the liquid flow and controllable independently of the liquid flow, wherein the electric field-based technique is performed by providing a set of electrodes on the surface and selectively biasing the set of electrodes, whereby the sample droplet is formed on one of the set of electrodes.
197 Citations
16 Claims
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1. A method for sampling a liquid flow, comprising the steps of:
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(a) supplying a continuous liquid flow from a continuous flow fluid input source to a surface along a first flow path; and
(b) sampling the continuous liquid flow by performing an electric field-based technique to split off a sample droplet from a portion of the liquid flow, whereby the sample droplet is distinct from the liquid flow and controllable independently of the liquid flow, wherein the electric field-based technique is performed by providing a set of electrodes on the surface and selectively biasing the set of electrodes, whereby the sample droplet is formed on one of the set of electrodes. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8)
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9. A method for sampling a liquid flow, comprising the steps of:
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(a) supplying a continuous liquid flow from a continuous flow fluid input source to a surface along a first flow path; and
(b) sampling the continuous liquid flow by performing an electric field-based technique to split off a sample droplet from a portion of the liquid flow, whereby the sample droplet is distinct from the liquid flow and controllable independently of the liquid flow, wherein the electric field-based technique is performed by providing a set of electrodes on the surface, placing at least a portion of the liquid flow in communication with at least one conductive element and a first one of the electrodes, and selectively biasing the set of electrodes, whereby the sample droplet is formed on another electrode different from the first electrode. - View Dependent Claims (10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16)
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Specification