ORCID Profile
0000-0002-3079-8880
Current Organisations
University of Birmingham
,
University of Southampton
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In Research Link Australia (RLA), "Research Topics" refer to ANZSRC FOR and SEO codes. These topics are either sourced from ANZSRC FOR and SEO codes listed in researchers' related grants or generated by a large language model (LLM) based on their publications.
Mechanical Engineering | Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS) | Microbial Genetics | Mechanical engineering | Biomedical Instrumentation | Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) |
Expanding Knowledge in Technology | Expanding Knowledge in the Physical Sciences | Expanding Knowledge in the Biological Sciences |
Publisher: IEEE
Date: 12-2012
Publisher: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
Date: 2019
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2018
DOI: 10.1039/C8NR05600E
Abstract: We demonstrate sonication-enabled production of liquid metal nanoparticles grafted with poly(1-octadecene- alt -maleic anhydride) in water that remain stable in biological buffers.
Publisher: IOP Publishing
Date: 20-03-2023
Abstract: Stretchable conductive composites (SCCs) have been widely used as interconnects and sensors in stretchable electronic devices due to their tunable electromechanical properties and intrinsically high stretchability compared to solid metals. SCCs can be readily made by mixing (or breaking bulk) conductive fillers within an elastomeric polymer, which are subsequently cured. Despite the simplicity of this, most fabrication methods follow customized protocols and lack precise automatic control. These methods also require bulky and costly equipment (e.g. stirrers, mixers, ovens, and vacuuming machines). Also, variations in the production process make it challenging to maintain the consistency of SCC’s electrical and mechanical properties produced in different batches. To solve this problem, this work develops an automatic SCC production platform (ASPP) that can be programmed to produce SCCs with high consistency in properties. The versatility of ASPP is demonstrated by fabricating SCCs with single and hybrid fillers, and porous structures. The consistency of SCCs’ electromechanical properties is examined using s les fabricated in different batches following the same protocol. We further utilize the fabricated SCCs to realize various intelligent tactile sensing and heating platforms. The capability demonstrated for the ASPP shows its potential in fabricating SCCs for applications in soft robotics and wearable devices.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 03-04-2022
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 21-02-2015
DOI: 10.1007/S00216-015-8529-1
Abstract: Budding yeast cells are quick and easy to grow and represent a versatile model of eukaryotic cells for a variety of cellular studies, largely because their genome has been widely studied and links can be drawn with higher eukaryotes. Therefore, the efficient separation, immobilization, and conversion of budding yeasts into spheroplast or protoplast can provide valuable insight for many fundamentals investigations in cell biology at a single cell level. Dielectrophoresis, the induced motion of particles in non-uniform electric fields, possesses a great versatility for manipulation of cells in microfluidic platforms. Despite this, dielectrophoresis has been largely utilized for studying of non-budding yeast cells and has rarely been used for manipulation of budding cells. Here, we utilize dielectrophoresis for studying the dynamic response of budding cells to different concentrations of Lyticase. This involves separation of the budding yeasts from a background of non-budding cells and their subsequent immobilization onto the microelectrodes at desired densities down to single cell level. The immobilized yeasts are then stimulated with Lyticase to remove the cell wall and convert them into spheroplasts, in a highly dynamic process that depends on the concentration of Lyticase. We also introduce a novel method for immobilization of the cell organelles released from the lysed cells by patterning multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) between the microelectrodes.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 21-02-2019
Publisher: IOP Publishing
Date: 24-09-2021
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 12-01-2016
Abstract: The continued miniaturization of electronic components demands integrated liquid cooling systems with minimized external connections and fabrication costs that can be implanted very close to localized hot spots. This might be challenging for existing liquid cooling systems because most of them rely on external pumps, connecting tubes, and microfabricated heat sinks. Here, we demonstrate an integrated liquid cooling system by utilizing a small droplet of liquid metal Galinstan, which is placed over the hot spot. Energizing the liquid metal droplet with a square wave signal creates a surface tension gradient across the droplet, which induces Marangoni flow over the surface of droplet. This produces a high flow rate of coolant medium through the cooling channel, enabling a "soft" pump. At the same time, the high thermal conductivity of liquid metal extends the heat transfer surface and facilitates the dissipation of heat, enabling a "soft" heat sink. This facilitates the rapid cooling of localized hot spots, as demonstrated in our experiments. Our technology facilitates customized liquid cooling systems with simple fabrication and assembling processes, with no moving parts that can achieve high flow rates with low power consumption.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2023
Publisher: American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)
Date: 27-01-2023
Abstract: Materials with programmable conductivity and stiffness offer new design opportunities for next-generation engineered systems in soft robotics and electronic devices. However, existing approaches fail to harness variable electrical and mechanical properties synergistically and lack the ability to self-respond to environmental changes. We report an electro-mechano responsive Field’s metal hybrid elastomer exhibiting variable and tunable conductivity, strain sensitivity, and stiffness. By synergistically harnessing these properties, we demonstrate two applications with over an order of magnitude performance improvement compared to state-of-the-art, including a self-triggered multiaxis compliance compensator for robotic manipulators, and a resettable, highly compact, and fast current-limiting fuse with an adjustable fusing current. We envisage that the extraordinary electromechanical properties of our hybrid elastomer will bring substantial advancements in resilient robotic systems, intelligent instruments, and flexible electronics.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2022
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 17-06-2020
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 13-05-2021
Abstract: Stretchable conductive composites (SCCs) are generally elastomer matrices filled with conductive fillers. They combine the conductivity of metals and carbon materials with the flexibility of polymers, which are attractive properties for applications such as stretchable electronics, wearable devices, and flexible sensors. Most conventional conductive composites that are filled with only one type of conductive filler face issues in mechanical and electrical properties. Recently, some studies introduced secondary fillers to create hybrid‐filler SCCs to solve these problems. The secondary fillers produce a synergistic effect with the primary fillers to enhance the electrical conductivity of the composites. They also improve the thermal conductivity and mechanical properties or impart composites with special functions like catalysis and self‐healing. Herein, the fabrication methods, stretchability enhancement strategies, and piezoresistivity of SCCs are analyzed, and their latest applications in stretchable electronics are introduced. Finally, the challenges and prospects of their development are discussed.
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2022
DOI: 10.1039/D2TB00931E
Abstract: Herein, recent advances in nanomaterials integrated with 3D printing technologies are summarized to inform the reader about the cutting-edge technology in the development of advanced 3D-printed structures for biomedical applications.
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2018
DOI: 10.1039/C8LC00047F
Abstract: In this work, we proposed an amalgamation-assisted lithography technique using liquid metal alloys for the fabrication of complex channels with a simple fabrication process, room-temperature fabrication and low toxicity.
Publisher: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
Date: 31-07-2017
Abstract: Single-cell biology requires the ability to construct experiments with single-cell precision, large numbers, and extremely small fluid volumes. To address this need, we have developed a new technology, printed droplet microfluidics, which encapsulates reagents and single cells in picoliter droplets, then actively selects and deposits desired droplets in an arrayed format on a printing substrate. This technology enables the construction of a large number of relevant single-cellular and multicellular experiments and enables new methods of detection.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 15-10-2018
Abstract: The controlled actuation of gallium liquid-metal (LM) alloys has presented new and exciting opportunities for constructing mobile robots with structural flexibility. However, the locomotion of current LM-based actuators often relies on inducing a gradient of interfacial tension on the LM surface within electrolytes, which limits their application outside a liquid environment. In this work, a wheeled robot using a LM droplet as the core of the driving system is developed that enables it to move outside liquid environment. The LM droplet inside the robot is actuated using a voltage to alter the robot's center of gravity, which in turn generates a rolling torque and induces continuous locomotion at a steady speed. A series of experiments is carried out to examine the robot's performance and then to develop a dynamic model using the Lagrange method to understand the locomotion. An untethered and self-powered wheeled robot that utilizes mini-lithium-batteries is also demonstrated. This study is envisaged to have the potential to expand current research on LM-based actuators to realize future complex robotic systems.
Publisher: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
Date: 08-2023
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 06-04-2018
Abstract: This work presents a simple, low-cost method to fabricate semi-circular channels using solder paste, which can amalgamate the cooper surface to form a half-cylinder mold using the surface tension of Sn-Pd alloy (the main component in solder paste). This technique enables semi-circular channels to be manufactured with different dimensions. These semi-circular channels will then be integrated with a polymethylmethacrylate frame and machine screws to create miniaturized, portable microfluidic valves for sequential liquid delivery and particle synthesis. This approach avoids complicated fabrication processes and expensive facilities and thus has the potential to be a useful tool for lab-on-a-chip applications.
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2014
DOI: 10.1039/C3LC51124C
Abstract: This review discusses biomarkers and outlines microfluidic platforms developed for biomarker analysis.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 23-07-2015
DOI: 10.1038/SREP11973
Abstract: Immobilisation of cells is an important feature of many cellular assays, as it enables the physical/chemical stimulation of cells whilst, monitoring cellular processes using microscopic techniques. Current approaches for immobilising cells, however, are h ered by time-consuming processes, the need for specific antibodies or coatings and adverse effects on cell integrity. Here, we present a dielectrophoresis-based approach for the robust immobilisation of cells and analysis of their responses under high shear flows. This approach is quick and label-free and more importantly, minimises the adverse effects of electric field on the cell integrity, by activating the field for a short duration of 120 s, just long enough to immobilise the cells, after which cell culture media (such as HEPES) is flushed through the platform. In optimal conditions, at least 90% of the cells remained stably immobilised, when exposed to a shear stress of 63 dyn/cm 2 . This approach was used to examine the shear-induced calcium signalling of HEK-293 cells expressing a mechanosensitive ion channel, transient receptor potential vaniloid type 4 (TRPV4), when exposed to the full physiological range of shear stress.
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2016
DOI: 10.1039/C6LC00951D
Abstract: Herein, we have demonstrated coating of particles and cells utilizing the taSSAW approach.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2017
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2018
DOI: 10.1039/C7LC01076A
Abstract: In this review, we discuss the up-to-date progress of particle migration in viscoelastic fluids mainly from the aspect of applications, laying out a comprehensive perspective on their potential in future lab-on-a-chip platforms.
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2018
DOI: 10.1039/C8SM01281D
Abstract: We report an innovative method for controlling the locomotion of liquid metal droplets using Lorentz force induced by a magnetic field.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 16-01-2017
DOI: 10.1038/SREP40479
Abstract: The emerging development of the hybrid plasmonic waveguide has recently received significant attention owing to its remarkable capability of enabling subwavelength field confinement and great transmission distance. Here we report a guiding approach that integrates hybrid plasmon polariton with dielectric-loaded plasmonic waveguiding. By introducing a deep-subwavelength dielectric ridge between a dielectric slab and a metallic substrate, a hybrid dielectric-loaded nanoridge plasmonic waveguide is formed. The waveguide features lower propagation loss than its conventional hybrid waveguiding counterpart, while maintaining strong optical confinement at telecommunication wavelengths. Through systematic structural parameter tuning, we realize an efficient balance between confinement and attenuation of the fundamental hybrid mode, and we demonstrate the tolerance of its properties despite fabrication imperfections. Furthermore, we show that the waveguide concept can be extended to other metal/dielectric composites as well, including metal-insulator-metal and insulator-metal-insulator configurations. Our hybrid dielectric-loaded nanoridge plasmonic platform may serve as a fundamental building block for various functional photonic components and be used in applications such as sensing, nanofocusing, and nanolasing.
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 23-07-2020
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 21-03-2019
DOI: 10.1038/S41467-019-09325-4
Abstract: Conductive elastic composites have been used widely in soft electronics and soft robotics. These composites are typically a mixture of conductive fillers within elastomeric substrates. They can sense strain via changes in resistance resulting from separation of the fillers during elongation. Thus, most elastic composites exhibit a negative piezoconductive effect, i.e. the conductivity decreases under tensile strain. This property is undesirable for stretchable conductors since such composites may become less conductive during deformation. Here, we report a liquid metal-filled magnetorheological elastomer comprising a hybrid of fillers of liquid metal microdroplets and metallic magnetic microparticles. The composite’s resistivity reaches a maximum value in the relaxed state and drops drastically under any deformation, indicating that the composite exhibits an unconventional positive piezoconductive effect. We further investigate the magnetic field-responsive thermal properties of the composite and demonstrate several proof-of-concept applications. This composite has prospective applications in sensors, stretchable conductors, and responsive thermal interfaces.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 04-04-2019
DOI: 10.3390/APP9071421
Abstract: The self-rotation of liquid metal droplets (LMDs) has garnered potential for numerous applications, such as chip cooling, fluid mixture, and robotics. However, the controllable self-rotation of LMDs utilizing magnetic fields is still underexplored. Here, we report a novel method to induce self-rotation of LMDs solely utilizing a rotating magnetic field. This is achieved by rotating a pair of permanent magnets around a LMD located at the magnetic field center. The LMD experiences Lorenz force generated by the relative motion between the droplet and the permanent magnets and can be rotated. Remarkably, unlike the actuation induced by electrochemistry, the rotational motion of the droplet induced by magnetic fields avoids the generation of gas bubbles and behaves smoothly and steadily. We investigate the main parameters that affect the self-rotational behaviors of LMDs and validate the theory of this approach. We further demonstrate the ability of accelerating cooling and a mixer enabled by the self-rotation of a LMD. We believe that the presented technique can be conveniently adapted by other systems after necessary modifications and enables new progress in microfluidics, microelectromechanical (MEMS) applications, and micro robotics.
Publisher: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
Date: 2023
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 26-10-2019
Publisher: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
Date: 04-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2021
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 30-11-2020
DOI: 10.3390/BIOS10120196
Abstract: This review is focused on the basic properties, production, functionalization, cytotoxicity, and biomedical applications of liquid metal nanoparticles (LMNPs), with a focus on particles of the size ranging from tens to hundreds of nanometers. Applications, including cancer therapy, medical imaging, and pathogen treatment are discussed. LMNPs share similar properties to other metals, such as photothermal conversion ability and a propensity to form surface oxides. Compared to many other metals, especially mercury, the cytotoxicity of gallium is low and is considered by many reports to be safe when applied in vivo. Recent advances in exploring different grafting molecules are reported herein, as surface functionalization is essential to enhance photothermal therapeutic effects of LMNPs or to facilitate drug delivery. This review also outlines properties of LMNPs that can be exploited in making medical imaging contrast agents, ion channel regulators, and anti-pathogenic agents. Finally, a foresight is offered, exemplifying underexplored knowledge and highlighting the research challenges faced by LMNP science and technology in expanding into applications potentially yielding clinical advances.
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 07-01-2014
DOI: 10.1021/NL4042356
Abstract: Quasi-two-dimensional (quasi-2D) molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) is a photoluminescence (PL) material with unique properties. The recent demonstration of its PL, controlled by the intercalation of positive ions, can lead to many opportunities for employing this quasi-2D material in ion-related biological applications. Here, we present two representative models of biological systems that incorporate the ion-controlled PL of quasi-2D MoS2 nanoflakes. The ion exchange behaviors of these two models are investigated to reveal enzymatic activities and cell viabilities. While the ion intercalation of MoS2 in enzymatic activities is enabled via an external applied voltage, the intercalation of ions in cell viability investigations occurs in the presence of the intrinsic cell membrane potential.
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 03-02-2015
DOI: 10.1021/AC5043335
Abstract: The localized motion of cells within a cluster is an important feature of living organisms and has been found to play roles in cell signaling, communication, and migration, thus affecting processes such as proliferation, transcription, and organogenesis. Current approaches for inducing dynamic movement into cells, however, focus predominantly on mechanical stimulation of single cells, affect cell integrity, and, more importantly, need a complementary mechanism to pattern cells. In this article, we demonstrate a new strategy for the mechanical stimulation of large cell clusters, taking advantage of dielectrophoresis. This strategy is based on the cellular spin resonance mechanism, but it utilizes coating agents, such as bovine serum albumin, to create consistent rotation and vibration of in idual cells. The treatment of cells with coating agents intensifies the torque induced on the cells while reducing the friction at the cell-cell and cell-substrate interfaces, resulting in the consistent motion of the cells. Such localized motion can be modulated by varying the frequency and voltage of the applied sinusoidal AC signal and can be achieved in the absence and presence of flow. This strategy enables the survival and functioning of moving cells within large-scale clusters to be investigated.
Publisher: Applied Rheology; ETH Zurich
Date: 2018
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 10-02-2020
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 26-03-2019
DOI: 10.3390/MI10030209
Abstract: Gallium-based liquid metal alloys have been attracting attention from both industry and academia as soft, deformable, reconfigurable and multifunctional materials in microfluidic, electronic and electromagnetic devices. Although various technologies have been explored to control the morphology of liquid metals, there is still a lack of methods that can achieve precise morphological control over a free-standing liquid metal droplet without the use of mechanical confinement. Electrochemical manipulation can be relatively easy to apply to liquid metals, but there is a need for techniques that can enable automatic and precise control. Here, we investigate the use of an electrochemical technique combined with a feedback control system to automatically and precisely control the morphology of a free-standing liquid metal droplet in a sodium hydroxide solution. We establish a proof-of-concept platform controlled by a microcontroller to demonstrate the reconfiguration of a liquid metal droplet to desired patterns. We expect that this method will be further developed to realize future reconfigurable liquid metal-enabled soft robots.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 28-06-2021
DOI: 10.3390/MI12070765
Abstract: Organ-on-a-chip (OOC) uses the microfluidic 3D cell culture principle to reproduce organ- or tissue-level functionality at a small scale instead of replicating the entire human organ. This provides an alternative to animal models for drug development and environmental toxicology screening. In addition to the biomimetic 3D microarchitecture and cell–cell interactions, it has been demonstrated that mechanical stimuli such as shear stress and mechanical strain significantly influence cell behavior and their response to pharmaceuticals. Microfluidics is capable of precisely manipulating the fluid of a microenvironment within a 3D cell culture platform. As a result, many OOC prototypes leverage microfluidic technology to reproduce the mechanically dynamic microenvironment on-chip and achieve enhanced in vitro functional organ models. Unlike shear stress that can be readily generated and precisely controlled using commercial pumping systems, dynamic systems for generating proper levels of mechanical strains are more complicated, and often require miniaturization and specialized designs. As such, this review proposes to summarize innovative microfluidic OOC platforms utilizing mechanical actuators that induce deflection of cultured cells/tissues for replicating the dynamic microenvironment of human organs.
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2021
DOI: 10.1039/D1MH00647A
Abstract: A light-controlled method for the versatile manipulation of liquid metal droplets is introduced. This approach shows the ability of inducing concurrent motion of multiple liquid metal droplets using infrared light without complex and bulky systems.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2023
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-2021
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 12-02-2019
DOI: 10.1021/ACS.ANALCHEM.9B00093
Abstract: Although droplet-based microfluidics has been broadly used as a versatile tool in biology, chemistry, and nanotechnology, its rather complicated microfabrication process and the requirement of specialized hardware and operating skills hinder researchers fully unleashing the potential of this powerful platform. Here, we develop an integrated microdroplet generator enabled by a spinning conical frustum for the versatile production of near-monodisperse microdroplets in a high-throughput and off-chip manner. The construction and operation of this generator are simple and straightforward without the need of microfabrication, and we demonstrate that the generator is able to passively and actively control the size of the produced microdroplets. In addition to water microdroplets, this generator can produce microdroplets of liquid metal that would be difficult to produce in conventional microfluidic platforms as liquid metal has high surface tension. Moreover, we demonstrate that this generator can produce solid hydrogel microparticles and fibers using integrated ultraviolet (UV) light. In the end, we further explore the ability of this generator for forming double emulsions by coflowing two immiscible liquids. Given the remarkable abilities demonstrated by this platform and the tremendous potential of microdroplets, this user-friendly method may revolutionize the future of droplet-based chemical synthesis and biological analysis.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 03-11-2020
DOI: 10.3390/BIOS10110165
Abstract: Nanoparticles (NPs) and microparticles (MPs) have been widely used in different areas of research such as materials science, energy, and biotechnology. On-demand synthesis of NPs and MPs with desired chemical and physical properties is essential for different applications. However, most of the conventional methods for producing NPs/MPs require bulky and expensive equipment, which occupies large space and generally need complex operation with dedicated expertise and labour. These limitations hinder inexperienced researchers to harness the advantages of NPs and MPs in their fields of research. When problems in idual researchers accumulate, the overall interdisciplinary innovations for unleashing a wider range of directions are undermined. In recent years, modular and integrated systems are developed for resolving the ongoing dilemma. In this review, we focus on the development of modular and integrated systems that assist the production of NPs and MPs. We categorise these systems into two major groups: systems for the synthesis of (1) NPs and (2) MPs systems for producing NPs are further ided into two sections based on top-down and bottom-up approaches. The mechanisms of each synthesis method are explained, and the properties of produced NPs/MPs are compared. Finally, we discuss existing challenges and outline the potentials for the development of modular and integrated systems.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 17-11-2022
Abstract: Smart materials that can actively tune their stiffness are of great interest to many fields, including the construction industry, medical devices, industrial machines, and soft robotics. However, developing a material that can offer a large range of stiffness change and rapid tuning remains a challenge. Herein, a liquid metal variable stiffness material (LMVSM) that can actively and rapidly tune its stiffness by applying an external magnetic field or by changing the temperature is developed. The LMVSM is composed of three layers: a gallium–iron magnetorheological fluid (Ga–Fe MRF) layer for providing variable stiffness, a nickel–chromium wire layer for Joule heating, and a soft heat dissipation layer for accelerating heating and rapid cooling. The stiffness can be rapidly increased by 4 times upon the application of a magnetic field or 10 times by solidifying the Ga–Fe MRF. Finally, the LMVSM is attached to a pneumatically controlled soft robotic gripper to actively tune its load capacity, demonstrating its potential to be further developed into smart components that can be widely adopted by smart devices.
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 14-02-2022
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 07-03-2021
Abstract: The presence of microdomes can significantly increase the surface roughness, contact area, and deformability of materials, which have been adopted in many fields including microfluidics, wearable devices, and microanalysis systems. However, the shape of liquid metal (LM) droplet is defined by the density and surface energy, which has very limited room to tune. In this work, a simple, low‐cost method to effectively control the profile of LM using the masked amalgamation is presented. The LM amalgamates the masked copper surface to create the complex microdomes with various aspect ratios, sizes, profiles, and structures. The concave dome replicated from the LM mold has been demonstrated to enhance the microfluidic mixing performance. With a pattern transfer technique, the microconvex domes can be patterned on the surface of stretchable conductive composites to develop a flexible and sensitive pressure sensor. This sensor exhibits a fast response time, a wide working range, and an enhanced sensitivity for detecting small strains. As such, the fabricated microdomes exhibit a great potential to enable the fabrication of high‐performance sensors, microfluidic platforms, and micro total analysis systems.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.BIOS.2013.05.053
Abstract: For understanding cells functionalities and their communications, there is a need for highly sensitive cell analysis platforms capable of assessing non-specific chemicals on the surface and in the vicinity of cells. We report a microfluidic system integrating dielectrophoresis and surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) for the trapping and real time monitoring of cell functions in isolated and grouped cell clusters. Yeast cells are coated with silver nanoparticles to enable highly sensitive SERS analysis. The SERS responses of cells are examined under various conditions: live vs. dead and isolated vs. grouped. This work illustrates the feasibility of the system for in situ cell monitoring and analysis of secreted chemicals during their growth, metabolism, proliferation and apoptosis.
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 19-05-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2020
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 19-09-2014
Abstract: Intercellular signalling has been identified as a highly complex process, responsible for orchestrating many physiological functions. While conventional methods of investigation have been useful, their limitations are impeding further development. Microfluidics offers an opportunity to overcome some of these limitations. Most notably, microfluidic systems can emulate the in-vivo environments. Further, they enable exceptionally precise control of the microenvironment, allowing complex mechanisms to be selectively isolated and studied in detail. There has thus been a growing adoption of microfluidic platforms for investigation of cell signalling mechanisms. This review provides an overview of the different signalling mechanisms and discusses the methods used to study them, with a focus on the microfluidic devices developed for this purpose.
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2015
DOI: 10.1039/C5LC00742A
Abstract: Low voltages can control the directional flow of EGaIn liquid metal in complex microfluidic networks via two complementary mechanisms.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 14-07-2014
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2020
DOI: 10.1039/D0LC00939C
Abstract: An integrated revolving needle emulsion generator (RNEG) is developed to achieve high-throughput production of monodispersed droplets in an off-chip manner.
Publisher: SCITEPRESS - Science and and Technology Publications
Date: 2016
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2019
DOI: 10.1039/C9LC00482C
Abstract: Microalgae cells have been recognized as a promising sustainable resource to meet worldwide growing demands for renewable energy, food, livestock feed, water, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and materials. In order to ensure high-efficiency and high-quality production of biomass, biofuel, or bio-based products, purification procedures prior to the storage and cultivation of the microalgae from contaminated bacteria are of great importance. The present work proposed and developed a simple, sheathless, and efficient method to separate microalgae Chlorella from bacteria Bacillus Subtilis in a straight channel using the viscoelasticity of the medium. Microalgae and bacteria migrate to different lateral positions closer to the channel centre and channel walls respectively. Fluorescent microparticles with 1 μm and 5 μm diameters were first used to mimic the behaviours of bacteria and microalgae to optimize the separating conditions. Subsequently, size-based separation in Newtonian fluid and in viscoelastic fluid in straight channels with different aspect ratios was compared and demonstrated. Under the optimal condition, the removal ratio for 1 μm microparticles and separation efficiency for 5 μm particles can reach up to 98.28% and 93.85% respectively. For bacteria and microalgae cells separation, the removal ratio for bacteria and separation efficiency for microalgae cells is 92.69% and 100% respectively. This work demonstrated the continuous and sheathless separation of microalgae from bacteria for the first time by viscoelastic microfluidics. This technique can also be applied as an efficient and user-friendly method to separate mammalian cells or other kinds of cells.
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2015
DOI: 10.1039/C5LC00415B
Abstract: This work presents a microfluidic chip, which integrates continuous generation of micro scale galinstan droplets in glycerol, and the hydrodynamic transfer of these droplets into sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 23-02-2018
DOI: 10.1007/S10544-018-0269-5
Abstract: In this work, a novel double-layer microfluidic device for enhancing particle focusing was presented. The double-layer device consists of a channel with expansion-contraction array and periodical slanted grooves. The secondary flows induced by the grooves modulate the flow patterns in the expansion-contraction-array (ECA) channel, further affecting the particle migration. Compared with the single ECA channel, the double-layer channel can focus the particles over a wider range of flow rate. Due to the differentiation of lateral migration, the double-layer channel is able to distinguish the particles with different sizes. Furthermore, the equilibrium positions could be modulated by the orientation of grooves. This work demonstrates the possibility to enhance and adjust the inertial focusing in an ECA channel with the assistance of grooves, which may provide a simple and portable platform for downstream filtration, separation, and detection.
Publisher: American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)
Date: 11-11-2022
Abstract: A stretchable conductive circuit is formed using a liquid metal-polymer composite
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 14-01-2015
DOI: 10.1021/AM5077364
Abstract: Solvothermally synthesized Ga2O3 nanoparticles are incorporated into liquid metal/metal oxide (LM/MO) frameworks in order to form enhanced photocatalytic systems. The LM/MO frameworks, both with and without incorporated Ga2O3 nanoparticles, show photocatalytic activity due to a plasmonic effect where performance is related to the loading of Ga2O3 nanoparticles. Optimum photocatalytic efficiency is obtained with 1 wt % incorporation of Ga2O3 nanoparticles. This can be attributed to the sub-bandgap states of LM/MO frameworks, contributing to pseudo-ohmic contacts which reduce the free carrier injection barrier to Ga2O3.
Publisher: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
Date: 12-2022
Publisher: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
Date: 09-2023
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 07-02-2022
Abstract: The ability to control interfacial tension electrochemically is uniquely available for liquid metals (LMs), in particular gallium‐based LM alloys. This imparts them with excellent locomotion and deformation capabilities and enables erse applications. However, electrochemical oxidation of LM is a highly dynamic process, which often induces Marangoni instabilities that make it almost impossible to elongate LM and manipulate its morphology directly and precisely on a 2D plane without the assistance of other patterning methods. To overcome these limitations, this study investigates the use of an LM–iron (Fe) particle mixture that is capable of suppressing instabilities during the electrochemical oxidation process, thereby allowing for superelongation of the LM core of the mixture to form a thin wire that is tens of times of its original length. More importantly, the elongated LM core can be manipulated freely on a 2D plane to form complex patterns. Eliminating Marangoni instabilities also allows for the effective spreading and filling of the LM–Fe mixture into molds with complex structures and small features. Harnessing these excellent abilities, a channel‐less patterning method for fabricating elastomeric wearable sensors is demonstrated to detect motions. This study shows the potential for developing functional and flexible structures of LM with superior performance.
Publisher: AIP Publishing
Date: 22-09-2014
DOI: 10.1063/1.4896629
Abstract: Semiconducting properties of nanoparticle coating on liquid metal marbles can present opportunities for an additional dimension of control on these soft objects with functional surfaces in aqueous environments. We show the unique differences in the electrochemical actuation mechanisms of liquid metal marbles with n- and p-type semiconducting nanomaterial coating. A systematic study on such liquid metal marbles shows voltage dependent nanoparticle cluster formation and morphological changes of the liquid metal core during electrochemical actuations and these observations are unique to p-type nanomaterial coated liquid metal marbles.
Publisher: Research Square Platform LLC
Date: 12-09-2022
DOI: 10.21203/RS.3.RS-2039368/V1
Abstract: Materials with programmable conductivity and stiffness offer new design opportunities for next-generation engineered systems in soft robotics and wearable devices. However, existing approaches fail to harness variable electrical and mechanical properties synergistically, and lack the ability to self-respond to environmental changes. We report an electro-mechano responsive Field’s metal hybrid elastomer (FMHE) exhibiting variable and tuneable conductivity, strain sensitivity, and stiffness. By synergistically harnessing these properties, we demonstrate two applications with over an order of magnitude performance improvement compared to state-of-the-art, including a self-triggered multi-axis compliance compensator for robotic manipulators, and a resettable, highly compact, and fast current-limiting fuse with adjustable fusing current. We envisage that the extraordinary electromechanical properties of our hybrid elastomer will bring significant advancements in resilient robotic systems, intelligent instruments, and flexible electronics.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 09-06-2015
Publisher: Annual Reviews
Date: 26-07-2021
DOI: 10.1146/ANNUREV-MATSCI-080819-125403
Abstract: Gallium is a metal that literally melts in your hand. It has low toxicity, near-zero vapor pressure, and a viscosity similar to water. Despite possessing a surface tension larger than any other liquid (near room temperature), gallium can form nonspherical shapes due to the thin, solid native oxide skin that forms rapidly in oxygen. These properties enable new ways to pattern metals (e.g., injection and printing) to create stretchable and soft devices with an unmatched combination of mechanical and electrical properties. The oxide skin can be transferred to other substrates and manipulated electrochemically to lower the interfacial tension to near zero. The reactivity of gallium can drive a wide range of reactions. The liquid state of gallium makes it easy to break into particles for making colloids and soft composites that have unusual properties due to the deformable nature of the filler. This review summarizes the truly unique and exciting properties of gallium liquid metals.
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2020
DOI: 10.1039/D0SM01153C
Abstract: We show the evolution of unique dynamic modes and the self-propulsion of Leidenfrost droplets when placed in a metallic disk with offset radial grooves.
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 06-2022
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 06-12-2020
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 17-09-2021
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 23-05-2021
DOI: 10.3390/MI12060604
Abstract: Portability and low-cost analytic ability are desirable for point-of-care (POC) diagnostics however, current POC testing platforms often require time-consuming multiple microfabrication steps and rely on bulky and costly equipment. This hinders the capability of microfluidics to prove its power outside of laboratories and narrows the range of applications. This paper details a self-contained microfluidic device, which does not require any external connection or tubing to deliver insert-and-use image-based analysis. Without any microfabrication, magnetorheological elastomer (MRE) microactuators including pumps, mixers and valves are integrated into one modular microfluidic chip based on novel manipulation principles. By inserting the chip into the driving and controlling platform, the system demonstrates s le preparation and sequential pumping processes. Furthermore, due to the straightforward fabrication process, chips can be rapidly reconfigured at a low cost, which validates the robustness and versatility of an MRE-enabled microfluidic platform as an option for developing an integrated lab-on-a-chip system.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2019
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 28-07-2021
Publisher: AIP Publishing
Date: 19-05-2014
DOI: 10.1063/1.4879457
Abstract: Here, we demonstrate the unique features of a hydrodynamic based microchip for creating continuous chains of model yeast cells. The system consists of a disk shaped microfluidic structure, containing narrow orifices that connect the main channel to an array of spoke channels. Negative pressure provided by a syringe pump draws fluid from the main channel through the narrow orifices. After cleaning process, a thin layer of water is left between the glass substrate and the polydimethylsiloxane microchip, enabling leakage beneath the channel walls. A mechanical cl is used to adjust the operation of the microchip. Relaxing the cl allows leakage of liquid beneath the walls in a controllable fashion, leading to formation of a long cell chain evenly distributed along the channel wall. The unique features of the microchip are demonstrated by creating long chains of yeast cells and model 15 μm polystyrene particles along the side wall and analysing the hydrogen peroxide induced death of patterned cells.
Publisher: AIP Publishing
Date: 15-04-2019
DOI: 10.1063/1.5086376
Abstract: Microdroplets of gallium-based liquid metal alloys have enabled various applications in the fields of biomedicine, electronics, and chemistry. However, due to the high surface tension of liquid metal, high-throughput production of uniformly sized liquid metal microdroplets is challenging using conventional acoustic or microfluidic methods. Here, adapting the submerged electrodispersion technique that has conventionally been used for generating water-based microdroplets, we develop a simple and straightforward platform for the high-throughput production of near-monodisperse (coefficient of variation less than 5%) liquid metal microdroplets in oil without using microfluidic devices. We demonstrate the capabilities of this method for producing liquid metal microdroplets (diameters ranging from tens to hundreds of micrometers) and introduce a spinning disk to induce a flow of oil phase for preventing the coalescence of the microdroplets. The simplicity and remarkable abilities demonstrated for this method may pave the path for the development of future innovative applications based on liquid metal microdroplets.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 19-12-2019
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-09-2021
Abstract: Artificial muscles possess a vast potential in accelerating the development of robotics, exoskeletons, and prosthetics. Although a variety of emerging actuator technologies are reported, they suffer from several issues, such as high driving voltages, large hysteresis, and water intolerance. Here, a liquid metal artificial muscle (LMAM) is demonstrated, based on the electrochemically tunable interfacial tension of liquid metal to mimic the contraction and extension of muscles. The LMAM can work in different solutions with a wide range of pH (0–14), generating actuation strains of up to 87% at a maximum extension speed of 15 mm s −1 . More importantly, the LMAM only needs a very low driving voltage of 0.5 V. The actuating components of the LMAM are completely built from liquids, which avoids mechanical fatigue and provides actuator linkages without mechanical constraints to movement. The LMAM is used for developing several proof‐of‐concept applications, including controlled displays, cargo deliveries, and reconfigurable optical reflectors. The simplicity, versatility, and efficiency of the LMAM are further demonstrated by using it to actuate the caudal fin of an untethered bionic robotic fish. The presented LMAM has the potential to extend the performance space of soft actuators for applications from engineering fields to biomedical applications.
Publisher: AIP Publishing
Date: 21-10-2013
DOI: 10.1063/1.4826923
Abstract: We demonstrate photochemically induced actuation of liquid metal marbles, which are liquid metal droplets encased in micro/nanoparticles. The WO3 nanoparticles coated marbles are placed in H2O2 solution, and their surfaces are illuminated with UV light. The semiconducting WO3 coating behaves as a photocatalyst to trigger a photochemical reaction, generating oxygen bubbles that propel the marble. The actuation of the marbles is investigated under different H2O2 concentrations, light intensities, and marble dimensions. Equations describing the fundamentals of such actuations are presented.
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2022
DOI: 10.1039/D2AN00283C
Abstract: This review summarises the recent major developments of the key subsystems for microfluidic flow cytometry and its achievements in blood-based biomarker analysis.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 21-07-2017
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2022
DOI: 10.1039/D1MA00885D
Abstract: The unique properties of gallium based liquid metals (GaLMs) can be harnessed for realising various effects, enabling the formation of numerous soft electromechanical actuators and eventually lead to applications in more complex systems.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-04-2017
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2021
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 22-01-2018
Abstract: Proteinuria is an established risk marker for progressive renal function loss and patients would significantly benefit from a point-of-care testing. Although extensive work has been done to develop the microfluidic devices for the detection of urinary protein, they need the complicated operation and bulky peripherals. Here, we present a rapid, maskless 3D prototyping for fabrication of capillary fluidic circuits using laser engraving. The capillary circuits can be fabricated in a short amount of time (<10 min) without the requirements of clean-room facilities and photomasks. The advanced capillary components (e.g., trigger valves, retention valves and retention bursting valves) were fabricated, enabling the sequential liquid delivery and s le-reagent mixing. With the integration of smartphone-based detection platform, the microfluidic device can quantify the urinary protein via a colorimetric analysis. By eliminating the bulky and expensive equipment, this smartphone-based detection platform is portable for on-site quantitative detection.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 17-05-2020
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-05-2021
Abstract: Biodevices are crucial for monitoring vital physiological signals, managing chronic health conditions, developing artificial organs for assisting people with disabilities, and conducting various clinical and surgical procedures. However, existing biodevices are mostly composed of rigid components, which can cause discomfort to the user, whereas the high stiffness of implants is known to be the major cause of inflammation and scarring. Gallium‐based liquid metals are intrinsically soft and possess desirable properties, including low toxicity, high conductivity, and deformability, which make them ideally suited for developing soft, deformable, reconfigurable, and healable biodevices. Herein, recent advancements in the emerging field of liquid‐metal‐based biodevices are discussed. This includes a description of the properties of gallium‐based liquid metals which make them so distinct from conventional materials, a brief outline of various techniques devised for fabrication of liquid‐metal‐based devices/structures, and an overview of the erse range of wearable or implantable liquid‐metal‐enabled biodevices. The outlook and challenges are also discussed.
Publisher: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
Date: 05-2019
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 14-06-2013
DOI: 10.1021/AC400741V
Abstract: Nonviable cells are essential biosystems, due to the functionalities they offer and their effects on viable cells. Therefore, the separation and immobilization of nonviable cells separately or in the vicinity of viable cells is of great importance for many fundamentals investigations in cell biology. However, most nonviable cells become less polarizable than the surrounding medium at conductivities above 0.01 S/m. This means that in such a medium, dielectrophoresis, despite its great versatilities for manipulation of cells, cannot be employed for immobilizing nonviable cells. Here, we present a novel approach to change the dielectrophoretic (DEP) response of nonviable yeast cells by treating them with low concentrations of ionic surfactants such as sodium dodecyl sulfate. After this treatment, they exhibit a strong positive DEP response, even at high medium conductivities. The capability of this treatment is demonstrated in two proof-of-concept experiments. First, we show the sorting and immobilization of viable and nonviable yeast cells, along consecutive microelectrode arrays. Second, we demonstrate the immobilization of viable and nonviable cells in the vicinity of each other along the same microelectrode array. The proposed technique allows DEP platforms to be utilized for the immobilization and subsequent postanalysis of both viable and nonviable cells with and without the presence of each other.
Publisher: AIP Publishing
Date: 03-2016
DOI: 10.1063/1.4945309
Abstract: Microfluidic platforms enable a variety of physical or chemical stimulation of single or multiple cells to be examined and monitored in real-time. To date, intracellular calcium signalling research is, however, predominantly focused on observing the response of cells to a single mode of stimulation consequently, the sensitising/desensitising of cell responses under concurrent stimuli is not well studied. In this paper, we provide an extended Discontinuous Dielectrophoresis procedure to investigate the sensitising of chemical stimulation, over an extensive range of shear stress, up to 63 dyn/cm2, which encompasses shear stresses experienced in the arterial and venus systems (10 to 60 dyn/cm2). Furthermore, the TRPV4-selective agonist GSK1016790A, a form of chemical stimulation, did not influence the ability of the cells' to remain immobilised under high levels of shear stress thus, enabling us to investigate shear stress stimulation on agonism. Our experiments revealed that shear stress sensitises GSK1016790A-evoked intracellular calcium signalling of cells in a shear-stimulus dependent manner, as observed through a reduction in the cellular response time and an increase in the pharmacological efficacy. Consequently, suggesting that the role of TRPV4 may be underestimated in endothelial cells—which experience high levels of shear stress. This study highlights the importance of conducting studies at high levels of shear stress. Additionally, our approach will be valuable for examining the effect of high levels of shear on different cell types under different conditions, as presented here for agonist activation.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 22-04-2018
Abstract: Functional nanoparticles comprised of liquid metals, such as eutectic gallium indium (EGaIn) and Galinstan, present exciting opportunities in the fields of flexible electronics, sensors, catalysts, and drug delivery systems. Methods used currently for producing liquid metal nanoparticles have significant disadvantages as they rely on both bulky and expensive high-power sonication probe systems, and also generally require the use of small molecules bearing thiol groups to stabilize the nanoparticles. Herein, an innovative microfluidics-enabled platform is described as an inexpensive, easily accessible method for the on-chip mass production of EGaIn nanoparticles with tunable size distributions in an aqueous medium. A novel nanoparticle-stabilization approach is reported using brushed polyethylene glycol chains with trithiocarbonate end-groups negating the requirements for thiol additives while imparting a "stealth" surface layer. Furthermore, a surface modification of the nanoparticles is demonstrated using galvanic replacement and conjugation with antibodies. It is envisioned that the demonstrated microfluidic technique can be used as an economic and versatile platform for the rapid production of liquid metal-based nanoparticles for a range of biomedical applications.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-04-2013
Abstract: Dielectrophoresis is a versatile tool for the sorting, immobilization, and characterization of cells in microfluidic systems. The performance of dielectrophoretic systems strongly relies on the configuration of microelectrodes, which produce a nonuniform electric field. However, once fabricated, the microelectrodes cannot be reconfigured to change the characteristics of the system. Here, we show that the reorientation of the microfluidic channel with respect to the microelectrodes can be readily utilized to alter the characteristics of the system. This enables us to change the location and density of immobilized viable cells across the channel, release viable cells along customized numbers of streams within the channel, change the deflection pattern of nonviable cells along the channel, and improve the sorting of viable and nonviable cells in terms of flow throughput and efficiency of the system. We demonstrate that the reorientation of the microfluidic channel is an effective tool to create versatile dielectrophoretic platforms using the same microelectrode design.
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2023
DOI: 10.1039/D2SM01349E
Abstract: The foam-core liquid metal (FCLM) droplets that can maintain the surface properties of LM while significantly reducing the density are developed, enabling 3D manipulation in an electrolyte.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 19-12-2018
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 15-09-2021
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2023
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2013
DOI: 10.1039/C3NR00185G
Abstract: Controlled actuation of soft objects with functional surfaces in aqueous environments presents opportunities for liquid phase electronics, novel assembled super-structures and unusual mechanical properties. We show the extraordinary electrochemically induced actuation of liquid metal droplets coated with nanoparticles, so-called "liquid metal marbles". We demonstrate that nanoparticle coatings of these marbles offer an extra dimension for affecting the bipolar electrochemically induced actuation. The nanoparticles can readily migrate along the surface of liquid metals, upon the application of electric fields, altering the capacitive behaviour and surface tension in a highly asymmetric fashion. Surprising actuation behaviours are observed illustrating that nanoparticle coatings can have a strong effect on the movement of these marbles. This significant novel phenomenon, combined with unique properties of liquid metal marbles, represents an exciting platform for enabling erse applications that cannot be achieved using rigid metal beads.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2018
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 22-01-2019
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-12-2018
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 25-11-2016
Abstract: Liquid metal co-injected with electrolyte through a microfluidic flow-focusing orifice forms droplets with diameters and production frequencies controlled in real time by voltage. Applying voltage to the liquid metal controls the interfacial tension via a combination of electrochemistry and electrocapillarity. This simple and effective method can instantaneously tune the size of the microdroplets, which has applications in composites, catalysts, and microsystems.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-03-2014
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 04-08-2014
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 24-10-2023
Publisher: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
Date: 18-02-2014
Abstract: The utilization of small-scale pumps is presently h ered by their limited flow rates with respect to the input power or their rather complicated fabrication process. These issues arise as many conventional pumping effects rely on moving elements. Here, we demonstrate the concept of a liquid metal enabled pump with no mechanical parts by simply incorporating droplets of Galinstan. The liquid metal enabled pump creates high flow rates ( ,000 µL/min) at exceptionally low powers ( mW) by electrowetting/deelectrowetting the surface upon application of electric field. The presented pump is both efficient and simple hence, it has the potential to advance the field of actuation in small-scale systems.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 16-11-2022
DOI: 10.3390/NANO12224018
Abstract: Flexible pressure sensors based on polymer elastomers filled with conductive fillers show great advantages in their applications in flexible electronic devices. However, integratable high-sensitivity pressure sensors remain understudied. This work improves the conductivity and sensitivity of PDMS-Fe/Ni piezoresistive composites by introducing silver flakes and magnetic-assisted alignment techniques. As secondary fillers, silver flakes with high aspect ratios enhance the conductive percolation network in composites. Meanwhile, a magnetic field aligns ferromagnetic particles to further improve the conductivity and sensitivity of composites. The resistivity of the composite decreases sharply by 1000 times within a tiny compression strain of 1%, indicating excellent sensing performance. On the basis of this, we demonstrate an integratable miniature pressure sensor with a small size (2 × 2 × 1 mm), high sensitivity (0.966 kPa
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2023
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2020
DOI: 10.1039/C9LC00785G
Abstract: This work comprehensively reviews the fundamentals and applications of different types of microfluidic techniques for the focusing of sub-micrometer particles.
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2017
DOI: 10.1039/C7LC00046D
Abstract: This review discusses the opportunities provided by gallium liquid metal alloys for making various microfluidic components.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 16-06-2016
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 19-05-2023
Abstract: Exploring and controlling surface tension‐driven phenomena in liquid metals may lead to unprecedented possibilities for next‐generation microfluidics, electronics, catalysis, and materials synthesis. In pursuit of these goals, the impact of minor constituents within liquid alloys is largely overlooked. Herein, it is showed that the presence of a fraction of solute metals such as tin, bismuth, and zinc in liquid gallium can significantly influence their electrocapillarity and electrochemistry. The instability‐driven fractal formation of liquid alloy droplets is investigated with different solutes and reveals the formation of distinctive non‐branched droplets, unstable fractals, and stable fractal modes under controlled voltage and alkaline solution conditions. In their in idually unique fractal morphology diagrams, different liquid alloys demonstrate significantly shifted voltage thresholds in transition between the three fractal modes, depending on the choice of the solute metal. Surface tension measurements, cycle voltammetry and surface compositional characterizations provide strong evidence that the minor alloy components drastically alter the surface tension, surface electrochemical oxidation, and oxide dissolution processes that govern the droplet deformation and instability dynamics. The findings that minor components are able to regulate liquid alloys’ surface tensions, surface element distributions and electrochemical activities offer great promises for harnessing the tunability and functionality of liquid metals.
Location: United States of America
Location: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Location: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Location: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Start Date: 07-2021
End Date: 07-2021
Amount: $355,000.00
Funder: Australian Research Council
View Funded ActivityStart Date: 07-2023
End Date: 06-2027
Amount: $826,390.00
Funder: Australian Research Council
View Funded ActivityStart Date: 08-2020
End Date: 08-2024
Amount: $420,000.00
Funder: Australian Research Council
View Funded Activity