Programmable Microfluidics in Virtual Electrowetting Channels

In this work, we demonstrate for the first time the combination of conventional pressure-driven microfluidics with electrically-programmable digital microfluidics. The use of continuous microfluidics in channels of fixed geometry is widespread and has been used for numerous applications. Digital microfluidics is an emerging area based on programmable electrowetting droplet movement. Merging the two paradigms leads to a microfluidic device capable of on-demand formation of microchannels. Continuous operation using pressure driven flows and electrical control of microchannel geometry are the distinguishing features of virtual electrowetting channels. Ultimately we expect to be able to generate channels of various shapes on-demand, dictated by the desired laboratory functions.