Electrokinetically driven micro flow cytometers with integrated fiber optics for on-line cell/particle detection

This paper presents an innovative micro flow cytometer which is capable of counting and sorting cells or particles. This compact device employs electrokinetic forces rather than the more conventional hydrodynamic forces technique for flow focusing and sample switching, and incorporates buried optical fibers for the on-line detection of cells or particles. This design approach results in a compact microfluidic system and an easier integration process. The proposed cytometer integrates several critical modules, namely electrokinetic-focusing devices, built-in control electrodes, buried optical fibers for on-line detection, and electrokinetic flow switches for bio-particle collection. A linear relationship exists between the focused stream width (d) and the focusing ratio (F/φ), which is estimated to be D ≈ 134.5 − 53.8F/φ. The relationship between the particle velocity (U) and the applied voltage (V) is also investigated. Numerical and experimental data confirm the effectiveness of the device when applied to the counting and sorting of 10 m diameter particles and red blood cells. © 2003 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.