1
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Liu H, Peng C, Guo S, Liu X, Li X. Rod-Shaped Liquid Plasticine as Cuttable Minireactor for Photodynamic Therapy of Tumors. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2309535. [PMID: 38193268 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202309535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has emerged as a promising non-invasive approach for cancer treatment. Enhancing its efficacy and understanding its absorption-induced attenuation are significant while the solutions are limited, particularly for the latter. In this study, a rod-shaped liquid plasticine (LP), comprised of a tumor cell solution encased by a nanoparticle monolayer, is used to serve as a powerful minireactor for addressing these issues. The channel structure, openness, and cuttability of the LP reactor are exploited for providing benefits to PDT. The resulting PDT efficacy is several times higher than those from droplet reactors with common spherical shapes. The attenuation law, which is fundamental in PDT yet poorly understood due to the lack of experimental approaches, is preliminarily uncovered here from the perspective of in vitro experiments by using the LP's cuttability, affording quantitative understanding on this difficult subject. These findings provide insights into the widely-concerned topics in PDT, and highlight the great potential of an LP reactor in offering innovation power for the biochemical and biomedical arenas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng Liu
- Shaanxi Basic Discipline (Liquid Physics) Research Center, School of Physical Science and Technology, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, 710129, China
| | - Chenxi Peng
- Frontiers Science Center for Flexible Electronics, Xi'an Institute of Flexible Electronics (IFE) and Xi'an Institute of Biomedical Materials & Engineering (IBME), Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, 710129, China
| | - Shuaichen Guo
- Shaanxi Basic Discipline (Liquid Physics) Research Center, School of Physical Science and Technology, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, 710129, China
| | - Xiaowang Liu
- Frontiers Science Center for Flexible Electronics, Xi'an Institute of Flexible Electronics (IFE) and Xi'an Institute of Biomedical Materials & Engineering (IBME), Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, 710129, China
| | - Xiaoguang Li
- Shaanxi Basic Discipline (Liquid Physics) Research Center, School of Physical Science and Technology, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, 710129, China
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2
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Tenjimbayashi M, Mouterde T, Roy PK, Uto K. Liquid marbles: review of recent progress in physical properties, formation techniques, and lab-in-a-marble applications in microreactors and biosensors. NANOSCALE 2023; 15:18980-18998. [PMID: 37990550 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr04966c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Liquid marbles (LMs) are nonsticking droplets whose surfaces are covered with low-wettability particles. Owing to their high mobility, shape reconfigurability, and widely accessible liquid/particle possibilities, the research on LMs has flourished since 2001. Their physical properties, fabrication mechanisms, and functionalisation capabilities indicate their potential for various applications. This review summarises the fundamental properties of LMs, the recent advances (mainly works published in 2020-2023) in the concept of LMs, physical properties, formation methods, LM-templated material design, and biochemical applications. Finally, the potential development and variations of LMs are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mizuki Tenjimbayashi
- Research Center for Materials Nanoarchitectonics (MANA), National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS), 1-1 Namiki, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0044, Japan.
| | - Timothée Mouterde
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan.
| | - Pritam Kumar Roy
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan.
| | - Koichiro Uto
- Research Center for Macromolecules and Biomaterials, NIMS, 1-1 Namiki, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0044, Japan
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3
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Zhu C, Zhang Y, Shekh MI, Dong B, Yan X, Zhu G. Advancing Inorganic Microcapsule Fabrication through Frozen-Assisted Interfacial Reactions Utilizing Liquid Marbles. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:50437-50446. [PMID: 37851951 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c08094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Inorganic microcapsules (IMs) have gained significant attention as versatile platforms for delivering functional agents in various fields. Traditional template-dependent methods employing hard templates often involve complex and harsh template removal processes. Achieving IMs with diverse composition and structure remains challenging with current preparation strategies. Therefore, in this work, we have for the first time demonstrated an extremely facile and efficient liquid-marbles-based template approach for fabricating pure inorganic microcapsules via interfacial reaction in a mild aqueous solution. The water-water reaction interface is created by changing the wettability of the liquid marble (LM) surface through the icing-melting process. The composition and function of the inorganic shell could be easily adjusted by varying the inorganic reagent species of the interfacial reaction, the hydrophobic particle of the shell, and the reaction environment according to the specific requirements of the application field. Such an approach provides a flexible platform for material preparation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengtian Zhu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Special Functional Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, P. R. China
- Department of Civil and Transportation Engineering, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Durability for Marine Civil Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, P. R. China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- Department of Civil and Transportation Engineering, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Durability for Marine Civil Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, P. R. China
| | - Mehdihasan I Shekh
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Special Functional Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, P. R. China
| | - Biqin Dong
- Department of Civil and Transportation Engineering, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Durability for Marine Civil Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, P. R. China
| | - Xiatao Yan
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Special Functional Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, P. R. China
| | - Guangming Zhu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Special Functional Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, P. R. China
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4
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Song Y, Wang L, Xu T, Zhang G, Zhang X. Emerging open-channel droplet arrays for biosensing. Natl Sci Rev 2023; 10:nwad106. [PMID: 38027246 PMCID: PMC10662666 DOI: 10.1093/nsr/nwad106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Open-channel droplet arrays have attracted much attention in the fields of biochemical analysis, biofluid monitoring, biomarker recognition and cell interactions, as they have advantages with regard to miniaturization, parallelization, high-throughput, simplicity and accessibility. Such droplet arrays not only improve the sensitivity and accuracy of a biosensor, but also do not require sophisticated equipment or tedious processes, showing great potential in next-generation miniaturized sensing platforms. This review summarizes typical examples of open-channel microdroplet arrays and focuses on diversified biosensing integrated with multiple signal-output approaches (fluorescence, colorimetric, surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), electrochemical, etc.). The limitations and development prospects of open-channel droplet arrays in biosensing are also discussed with regard to the increasing demand for biosensors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongchao Song
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
- Intelligent Wearable Engineering Research Center of Qingdao, Research Center for Intelligent and Wearable Technology, College of Textiles and Clothing, State Key Laboratory of Bio-Fibers and Eco-Textiles, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Lirong Wang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Tailin Xu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Guangyao Zhang
- Intelligent Wearable Engineering Research Center of Qingdao, Research Center for Intelligent and Wearable Technology, College of Textiles and Clothing, State Key Laboratory of Bio-Fibers and Eco-Textiles, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Xueji Zhang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
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5
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Zhao P, Yan L, Gao X. Millirobot Based on a Phase-Transformable Magnetorheological Liquid Metal. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:37658-37667. [PMID: 37503740 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c06648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Droplet robots have attracted much attention in recent years due to their large-scale deformability and flexible mobility in confined spaces. However, droplet robots are always difficult to maintain rigid shapes, making them difficult to manipulate objects with large inertia. Moreover, their low conductivity makes them unable to complete tasks such as circuit repair. Herein, a millirobot made from magnetorheological liquid metal is proposed to address the problems. Specifically, the magnetorheological liquid metal (MLM) robot is made by engulfing iron particles into gallium-indium alloy, and the mass fraction of the MLM robot is determined by microscopic observation and rheological test. The MLM robot possesses both solid and liquid properties, enabling the robot with plasticity, large-scale deformability, good conductivity, motion flexibility, and good object manipulation. The MLM robot can achieve almost all of the functions of existing droplet robots, including splitting, merging, navigating in narrow channels, and pushing objects. In addition, it can also accomplish some other tasks that are difficult for existing droplet robots, such as pulling large objects, repairing damaged circuits selectively and reversibly, and repairing suspended circuits through plasticity. The demos show that MLM robots can traverse narrow spaces and repair circuit damage selectively and reversibly. It is believed that MLM robots can enrich diverse functionalities in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiran Zhao
- School of Automation Science and Electrical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Liang Yan
- School of Automation Science and Electrical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
- Ningbo Institute of Technology, Beihang University, Ningbo 315800, China
- Tianmushan Laboratory, Hangzhou 310023, China
- Science and Technology on Aircraft Control Laboratory, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Xiaoshan Gao
- School of Automation Science and Electrical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
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6
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Li X, Pang X, Jiang H, Duan M, Liu H, Yang Z, Xi Y, Russell TP. Open millifluidics based on powder-encased channels. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2302907120. [PMID: 37399425 PMCID: PMC10334759 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2302907120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Millifluidics, the manipulation of liquid flow in millimeter-sized channels, has been a revolutionary concept in chemical processing and engineering. The solid channels that contain the liquids, though, are not flexible in their design and modification, and prevent contact with the external environment. All-liquid constructs, on the other hand, while flexible and open, are imbedded in a liquid environment. Here, we provide a route to circumvent these limitations by encasing the liquids in a hydrophobic powder in air that jams on the surface, containing and isolating flowing fluids, offering flexibility and adaptability in design, as manifest in the ability to reconfigure, graft, and segment the constructs. Along with the open nature of these powder-contained channels that allow arbitrary connections/disconnections and substance addition/extraction, numerous applications can be opened in the biological, chemical, and material arenas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoguang Li
- Shaanxi Basic Discipline (Liquid Physics) Research Center, School of Physical Science and Technology, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi710129, China
| | - Xianglong Pang
- Shaanxi Basic Discipline (Liquid Physics) Research Center, School of Physical Science and Technology, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi710129, China
| | - Haohao Jiang
- Shaanxi Basic Discipline (Liquid Physics) Research Center, School of Physical Science and Technology, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi710129, China
| | - Mei Duan
- Shaanxi Basic Discipline (Liquid Physics) Research Center, School of Physical Science and Technology, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi710129, China
| | - Heng Liu
- Shaanxi Basic Discipline (Liquid Physics) Research Center, School of Physical Science and Technology, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi710129, China
| | - Zhujun Yang
- Shaanxi Basic Discipline (Liquid Physics) Research Center, School of Physical Science and Technology, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi710129, China
| | - Yuhang Xi
- Shaanxi Basic Discipline (Liquid Physics) Research Center, School of Physical Science and Technology, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi710129, China
| | - Thomas P. Russell
- Materials Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA94720
- Polymer Science and Engineering Department, University of Massachusetts, Conte Center for Polymer Research, Amherst, MA01003
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing100029, China
- Advanced Institute for Materials Research, Tohoku University, Sendai980-8577, Japan
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7
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Lathia R, Dey Modak C, Sen P. Suppression of droplet pinch-off by early onset of interfacial instability. J Colloid Interface Sci 2023; 646:606-615. [PMID: 37210908 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2023.05.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
HYPOTHESIS Interfacial instabilities cause undesirable droplet breakage during impact. Such breakage affects many applications, such as printing, spraying, etc. Particle coating over a droplet can significantly change the impact process and stabilize it against breakage. This work investigates the impact dynamics of particle-coated droplets, which mostly remains unexplored. EXPERIMENTS Particle-coated droplets of different mass loading were formed using volume addition. The prepared droplets were impacted on superhydrophobic surfaces, and their dynamics were recorded using a high-speed camera. FINDINGS We report an intriguing phenomenon where an interfacial fingering instability helps suppress pinch-off in particle-coated droplets. This island of breakage suppression, where the droplet maintains its intactness upon impact, appears in a regime of Weber numbers where bare droplet breakage is inevitable. The onset of fingering instability in particle-coated droplets is observed at much lower impact energy, around two times less than the bare droplet. The instability is characterized and explained using the rim Bond number. The instability suppresses pinch-off because of the higher losses associated with the formation of stable fingers. Such instability can also be seen in dust/pollen-covered surfaces, making it useful in many applications related to cooling, self-cleaning, anti-icing etc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rutvik Lathia
- Centre for Nano Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | - Chandantaru Dey Modak
- Centre for Nano Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | - Prosenjit Sen
- Centre for Nano Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India.
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8
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Wang B, Handschuh-Wang S, Shen J, Zhou X, Guo Z, Liu W, Pumera M, Zhang L. Small-Scale Robotics with Tailored Wettability. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2205732. [PMID: 36113864 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202205732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Small-scale robots (SSRs) have emerged as promising and versatile tools in various biomedical, sensing, decontamination, and manipulation applications, as they are uniquely capable of performing tasks at small length scales. With the miniaturization of robots from the macroscale to millimeter-, micrometer-, and nanometer-scales, the viscous and surface forces, namely adhesive forces and surface tension have become dominant. These forces significantly impact motion efficiency. Surface engineering of robots with both hydrophilic and hydrophobic functionalization presents a brand-new pathway to overcome motion resistance and enhance the ability to target and regulate robots for various tasks. This review focuses on the current progress and future perspectives of SSRs with hydrophilic and hydrophobic modifications (including both tethered and untethered robots). The study emphasizes the distinct advantages of SSRs, such as improved maneuverability and reduced drag forces, and outlines their potential applications. With continued innovation, rational surface engineering is expected to endow SSRs with exceptional mobility and functionality, which can broaden their applications, enhance their penetration depth, reduce surface fouling, and inhibit bacterial adhesion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Wang
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Stephan Handschuh-Wang
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Jie Shen
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Spine Surgery, Department of Spine Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, China
| | - Xuechang Zhou
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Zhiguang Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Solid Lubrication, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Science, Lanzhou, 730000, China
- Hubei Collaborative Innovation Centre for Advanced Organic Chemical Materials and Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for the Green Preparation and Application of Functional Materials, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430062, China
| | - Weimin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Solid Lubrication, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Science, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Martin Pumera
- Future Energy and Innovation Laboratory, Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkyňova 123, Brno, 61200, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB - Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava, 70800, Czech Republic
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-Gu, Seoul, 03722, South Korea
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin N.T., Hong Kong, 999077, China
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin N.T., Hong Kong, 999077, China
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9
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Lathia R, Nampoothiri KN, Sagar N, Bansal S, Modak CD, Sen P. Advances in Microscale Droplet Generation and Manipulation. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2023; 39:2461-2482. [PMID: 36779356 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.2c02905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Microscale droplet generation and manipulation have widespread applications in numerous fields, from biochemical assays to printing and additive manufacturing. There are several techniques for droplet handling. Most techniques, however, can generate and work with only a limited range of droplet sizes. Furthermore, there are constraints regarding the workable variety of fluid properties (e.g., viscosity, surface tension, mass loading, etc.). Recent works have focused on developing techniques to overcome these limitations. This feature article discusses advances in this area that cover a wide range of droplet sizes from subpicoliter to microliter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rutvik Lathia
- Centre for Nano Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | - Krishnadas Narayanan Nampoothiri
- Centre for Nano Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Amrita School of Engineering, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Chennai 601103, India
| | - Nitish Sagar
- Centre for Nano Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | - Shubhi Bansal
- Centre for Nano Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
- University College London, London WC1E 6BT, U.K
| | - Chandantaru Dey Modak
- Centre for Nano Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
- Laboratoire de Biophysique et Evolution, UMR CNRS-ESPCI 8231 Chimie Biologie Innovation, PSL University, ESPCI Paris, 10 rue Vauquelin, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Prosenjit Sen
- Centre for Nano Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
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10
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Yang J, He Y, Jiao F, Wang M. Reciprocating Oscillation of a Floating Ferrofluid Marble Triggered by Magnetic Fields. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2022; 38:16024-16033. [PMID: 36516999 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.2c02531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Liquid marbles have the potential for microfluidic transport, medical diagnostics, and chemical analysis due to their negligible stickiness, environmental independence, and excellent mobility. Here, we report a non-contact manipulation strategy to arouse a reciprocating oscillation of ferrofluid marbles floating on the water surface, which can be used as microreactors. We experimentally investigated the quantitative relationship between the oscillation behavior, the applied magnetic field parameters, and the field regulation mechanism. The variables, including the magnetic field strength, marble volume, and switching period, are vital in determining the final state. The oscillation can be separated into three stages: transitional movement, compressive deformation, and rebound, before entering the next cycle. Accordingly, we created a manipulation technique for improving the mixing of inner reactants inside this marble container by remote-controlled shaking after optimizing with an oscillation model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianzhi Yang
- School of Chemical Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan650500, China
| | - Yongqing He
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Micro-Nano System and Intelligent Sensing, Chongqing Technology and Business University, Chongqing400067, China
| | - Feng Jiao
- School of Chemical Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan650500, China
| | - Ming Wang
- School of Chemical Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan650500, China
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11
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Azizian P, Mohammadrashidi M, Abbas Azimi A, Bijarchi MA, Shafii MB, Nasiri R. Magnetically Driven Manipulation of Nonmagnetic Liquid Marbles: Billiards with Liquid Marbles. MICROMACHINES 2022; 14:49. [PMID: 36677108 PMCID: PMC9865651 DOI: 10.3390/mi14010049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Liquid marbles are droplets encapsulated by a layer of hydrophobic nanoparticles and have been extensively employed in digital microfluidics and lab-on-a-chip systems in recent years. In this study, magnetic liquid marbles were used to manipulate nonmagnetic liquid marbles. To achieve this purpose, a ferrofluid liquid marble (FLM) was employed and attracted toward an electromagnet, resulting in an impulse to a water liquid marble (WLM) on its way to the electromagnet. It was observed that the manipulation of the WLM by the FLM was similar to the collision of billiard balls except that the liquid marbles exhibited an inelastic collision. Taking the FLM as the projectile ball and the WLM as the other target balls, one can adjust the displacement and direction of the WLM precisely, similar to an expert billiard player. Firstly, the WLM displacement can be adjusted by altering the liquid marble volumes, the initial distances from the electromagnet, and the coil current. Secondly, the WLM direction can be adjusted by changing the position of the WLM relative to the connecting line between the FLM center and the electromagnet. Results show that when the FLM or WLM volume increases by five times, the WLM shooting distance approximately increases by 200% and decreases by 75%, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parnian Azizian
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran 11155-9567, Iran
| | - Mahbod Mohammadrashidi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran 11155-9567, Iran
| | - Ali Abbas Azimi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran 11155-9567, Iran
| | - Mohamad Ali Bijarchi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran 11155-9567, Iran
| | - Mohammad Behshad Shafii
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran 11155-9567, Iran
| | - Rohollah Nasiri
- Department of Protein Science, Division of Nanobiotechnology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, 171 65 Solna, Sweden
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12
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Han X, Li J, Tang X, Li W, Zhao H, Yang L, Wang L. Droplet Bouncing: Fundamentals, Regulations, and Applications. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2022; 18:e2200277. [PMID: 35306734 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202200277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Droplet impact is a ubiquitous phenomenon in nature, daily life, and industrial processes. It is thus crucial to tune the impact outcomes for various applications. As a special outcome of droplet impact, the bouncing of droplets keeps the form of the droplets after the impact and minimizes the energy loss during the impact, being beneficial in many applications. A unified understanding of droplet bouncing is in high demand for effective development of new techniques to serve applications. This review shows the fundamentals, regulations, and applications of millimeter-sized droplet bouncing on solid surfaces and same/miscible liquids (liquid pool and another droplet). Regulation methods and current applications are summarized, and potential directions are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Han
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Jiaqian Li
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Xin Tang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Haibo Zhao
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
- Department of Mechanics and Aerospace Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China
| | - Ling Yang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Liqiu Wang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong
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13
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Sun Y, Zheng Y, Liu C, Zhang Y, Wen S, Song L, Zhao M. Liquid marbles, floating droplets: preparations, properties, operations and applications. RSC Adv 2022; 12:15296-15315. [PMID: 35693225 PMCID: PMC9118372 DOI: 10.1039/d2ra00735e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Liquid marbles (LMs) are non-wettable droplets formed with a coating of hydrophobic particles. They can move easily across either solid or liquid surfaces since the hydrophobic particles protect the internal liquid from contacting the substrate. In recent years, mainly due to their simple preparation, abundant materials, non-wetting/non-adhesive properties, elasticities and stabilities, LMs have been applied in many fields such as microfluidics, sensors and biological incubators. In this review, the recent advances in the preparation, physical properties and applications of liquid marbles, especially operations and floating abilities, are summarized. Moreover, the challenges to achieve uniformity, slow volatilization and stronger stability are pointed out. Various applications generated by LMs' structural characteristics are also expected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukai Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measuring Technology and Instruments, Tianjin University Tianjin China
| | - Yelong Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measuring Technology and Instruments, Tianjin University Tianjin China
| | - Chuntian Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measuring Technology and Instruments, Tianjin University Tianjin China
| | - Yihan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measuring Technology and Instruments, Tianjin University Tianjin China
| | - Shiying Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measuring Technology and Instruments, Tianjin University Tianjin China
| | - Le Song
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measuring Technology and Instruments, Tianjin University Tianjin China
| | - Meirong Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measuring Technology and Instruments, Tianjin University Tianjin China
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14
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Pang X, Duan M, Liu H, Xi Y, Shi H, Li X. Oscillation-Induced Mixing Advances the Functionality of Liquid Marble Microreactors. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:11999-12009. [PMID: 35171580 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c22314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Droplet-based microreactors often uncover fascinating phenomena and exhibit diverse functionality, which make them applicable in various fields. Liquid marbles (LMs) are non-wetting droplets coated with particles, and these features highlight their potential as microreactors. However, sophisticated experimental designs are typically hindered because it is difficult to obtain sufficient substance mixing in these miniature, damage-prone, self-supporting liquid containers. Here, we demonstrate that subjecting LMs to vertical oscillations by audio signals represents a controllable approach that allows sufficient mixing with variable dynamic modes. The characteristics and key issues in LM oscillation are systematically explored. The effects of oscillation on application potential are examined. Under oscillation conditions, homogeneous mixing can be achieved within a few seconds in LMs consisting of either water or viscous liquids. Importantly, the structures of materials synthesized in LMs can be regulated by modulating the oscillation modes. The variable modes, flexible adjustability, high efficiency, and wide applicability of this oscillation method make it a verified manipulation strategy for advancing the functionality of LM microreactors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianglong Pang
- School of Physical Science and Technology, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710129, China
| | - Mei Duan
- School of Physical Science and Technology, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710129, China
| | - Heng Liu
- School of Physical Science and Technology, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710129, China
| | - Yuhang Xi
- School of Physical Science and Technology, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710129, China
| | - Haixiao Shi
- School of Physical Science and Technology, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710129, China
| | - Xiaoguang Li
- School of Physical Science and Technology, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710129, China
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15
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Chen W, Zhang X, Zhao S, Huang J, Guo Z. Slippery magnetic track inducing droplet and bubble manipulation. Chem Commun (Camb) 2022; 58:1207-1210. [PMID: 34982074 DOI: 10.1039/d1cc06369c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
It is difficult for traditional droplet manipulation to combine transportation and rapid capture of droplets on an inclined surface. In this work, a slippery magnetic track (SMT) is presented to manipulate droplets and bubbles in a magnetic field. By changing the direction of the magnetic field, the transitions from non-pinning to pinning states on the SMT can be achieved. Through the SMT surface, it is possible to capture and release droplets and bubbles in the vertical direction. The detailed theoretical and experimental studies of droplet and bubble manipulation are discussed. This work demonstrates the versatility of magnetic manipulation, including the transition of droplet trajectory and bubble removal, which will facilitate the research of intelligent interfaces in energy transmission, drug transport and micro engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Chen
- Hubei Collaborative Innovation Centre for Advanced Organic Chemical Materials and Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for the Green Preparation and Application of Functional Materials, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, P. R. China. .,State Key Laboratory of Solid Lubrication, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, P. R. China.
| | - Xiaolin Zhang
- Hubei Collaborative Innovation Centre for Advanced Organic Chemical Materials and Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for the Green Preparation and Application of Functional Materials, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, P. R. China.
| | - Siyang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Solid Lubrication, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, P. R. China.
| | - Jinxia Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Solid Lubrication, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, P. R. China.
| | - Zhiguang Guo
- Hubei Collaborative Innovation Centre for Advanced Organic Chemical Materials and Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for the Green Preparation and Application of Functional Materials, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, P. R. China. .,State Key Laboratory of Solid Lubrication, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, P. R. China.
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16
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Wen M, Yao B, Yuan S, Zhang W, Zhang Y, Yang G, Lei H. Optically controlled coalescence and splitting of femtoliter/picoliter droplets for microreactors. RSC Adv 2022; 12:18311-18320. [PMID: 35799922 PMCID: PMC9215165 DOI: 10.1039/d2ra02230c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Microreactor technology has attracted tremendous interest due to its features of a large specific surface area, low consumption of reagents and energy, and flexible control of the reaction process. As most of the current microreactors have volumes of microliters or even larger, effective methods to reduce the microreactors' sizes and improve their flexibility and controllability have become highly demanded. Here we propose an optical method of coalescence and splitting of femto-/pico-liter droplets for application in microreactors. Firstly, two different schemes are adopted to stably trap and directionally transport the microdroplets (oil and water) by a scanning optical tweezing system. Then, optically controlled coalescence and splitting of the microdroplets are achieved on this basis, and the mechanism and conditions are explored. Finally, the microdroplets are used as microreactors to conduct the microreactions. Such microreactors combine the advantages of miniaturization and the multi-functions of microdroplets, as well as the precision, flexibility, and non-invasiveness of optical tweezers, holding great potential for applications in materials synthesis and biosensing. Optical trapping, transportation, coalescence and splitting of femto-/pico-liter microdroplets are realized based on a scanning optical tweezing system. On this basis, the microdroplets are used as microreactors to conduct the microreactions.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingcong Wen
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanotechnology Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Materials and Technologies, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Benjun Yao
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanotechnology Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Materials and Technologies, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Shun Yuan
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanotechnology Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Materials and Technologies, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Weina Zhang
- School of Information Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Photonics Information Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yao Zhang
- Institute of Nanophotonics, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Guowei Yang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanotechnology Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Materials and Technologies, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Hongxiang Lei
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanotechnology Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Materials and Technologies, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
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17
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Gallo A, Tavares F, Das R, Mishra H. How particle-particle and liquid-particle interactions govern the fate of evaporating liquid marbles. SOFT MATTER 2021; 17:7628-7644. [PMID: 34318861 DOI: 10.1039/d1sm00750e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Liquid marbles refer to droplets that are covered with a layer of non-wetting particles. They are observed in nature and have practical significance. These squishy objects bounce, coalesce, break, inflate, and deflate while the liquid does not touch the substrate underneath. Despite the considerable cross-disciplinary interest and value of the research on liquid marbles, a unified framework for describing the mechanics of deflating liquid marbles-as the liquid evaporates-is unavailable. For instance, analytical approaches for modeling the evaporation of liquid marbles exploit empirical parameters that are not based on liquid-particle and particle-particle interactions. Here, we have combined complementary experiments and theory to fill this gap. To unentangle the contributions of particle size, roughness, friction, and chemical make-up, we investigated the evaporation of liquid marbles formed with particles of sizes varying over 7 nm-300 μm and chemical compositions ranging from hydrophilic to superhydrophobic. We demonstrate that the potential final states of evaporating liquid marbles are characterized by one of the following: (I) constant surface area, (II) particle ejection, or (III) multilayering. Based on these insights, we developed an evaporation model for liquid marbles that takes into account their time-dependent shape evolution. The model fits are in excellent agreement with our experimental results. Furthermore, this model and the general framework can provide mechanistic insights into extant literature on the evaporation of liquid marbles. Altogether, these findings advance our fundamental understanding of liquid marbles and should contribute to the rational development of technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Gallo
- Interfacial Lab (iLab), Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC), Division of Biological and Environmental Sciences (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia.
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18
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Wang D, Li S, Wang B, Guo Z, Liu W. Fabrication of bioinspired edible liquid marble with phase transition and tunable water barrier property. Biodes Manuf 2021; 4:889-901. [PMID: 34377577 PMCID: PMC8336672 DOI: 10.1007/s42242-021-00158-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Based on aphid wax-honeydew marble and the hydrophobic wax structure of lotus and its derived applications with superareophilic and superhydrophobic properties, edible carnauba wax and beeswax particles were mixed and utilized to mimic lotus wax and wrap liquid, thus forming liquid marbles (LMs). Through the utilization of continuous production system (CPS), wax as an interfacial surfactant, water and solid, air-phase or mixed-phase marble content was produced. The edible liquid marble (ELM) could encapsulate water and food droplets. Edible solid marble (ESM) and edible solid hollow marbles (ESHMs) could be fabricated by applying pectin or syrup. Moreover, through the heating of wax powders with different melting temperatures, stable tablets and hollow capsules could be produced. The wax powder as interfacial surfactant could firmly bind with pectin through hydrogen bonds on ESM. The edible LMs can therefore be applied for residue reduction, corrosion reduction, biohazard prevention and cleaning in the food industry. The other phase LMs could act as novel tools in the pharmaceutical and food industries with the above-mentioned water transport, preservation, sustained releasing and selective releasing abilities. GRAPHIC ABSTRACT SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s42242-021-00158-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daheng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Solid Lubrication, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000 China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100039 China
| | - Shanpeng Li
- College of Engineering, Lishui University, Lishui, 323000 China
| | - Ben Wang
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060 China
| | - Zhiguang Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Solid Lubrication, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000 China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for the Green Preparation and Application of Functional Materials, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430062 China
| | - Weimin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Solid Lubrication, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000 China
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19
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Ooi CH, Vadivelu R, Jin J, Sreejith KR, Singha P, Nguyen NK, Nguyen NT. Liquid marble-based digital microfluidics - fundamentals and applications. LAB ON A CHIP 2021; 21:1199-1216. [PMID: 33656019 DOI: 10.1039/d0lc01290d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Liquid marbles are droplets with volume typically on the order of microliters coated with hydrophobic powder. Their versatility, ease of use and low cost make liquid marbles an attractive platform for digital microfluidics. This paper provides the state of the art of discoveries in the physics of liquid marbles and their practical applications. The paper first discusses the fundamental properties of liquid marbles, followed by the summary of different techniques for the synthesis of liquid marbles. Next, manipulation techniques for handling liquid marbles are discussed. Applications of liquid marbles are categorised according to their use as chemical and biological reactors. The paper concludes with perspectives on the future development of liquid marble-based digital microfluidics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chin Hong Ooi
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland 4111, Australia.
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20
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Kim Y, Oh S, Lee H, Lee D, Kim M, Baek HS, Park WS, Kim E, Jang JH. Chitosan-Alginate-Pectin-coated Suspended-Liquid-Encapsulating (CAPSuLE) marbles for therapeutic agent storage and delivery. Biomater Sci 2021; 9:1639-1651. [PMID: 33432951 DOI: 10.1039/d0bm01504k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Developing a cutting-edge system capable of ensuring long-lasting functionality of therapeutic agents and implementing diverse delivery modes is challenging. A quasi-spherical triple-layered capsule containing suspended liquid droplets and allowing multi-modal delivery of therapeutic agents in the aqueous phase was developed, primarily by adopting the core principles for creating liquid marbles. A naturally derived wettable polysaccharide-pectin-was utilized as a liquid-air interfacial barrier to keep the liquid droplets in the core zone. To tailor the pectin-coated droplet as a therapeutic agent carrier, anionic alginate and cationic chitosan layers were sequentially formed via additional interactions: physically stacking substances with structural chirality (pectin-alginate) and inducing electrostatic association to create the reversible complex coacervates (alginate-chitosan). The resulting system, which is called a Chitosan-Alginate-Pectin-coated Suspended-Liquid-Encapsulating (CAPSuLE) marble, had sufficient mechanical strength to resist external harsh environments and exhibited unique features: ecofriendly sustainability, responsiveness to external stimuli, coacervate-driven coalescence for linking adjacent marbles, and a self-repairing ability. The proposed CAPSuLE system can facilitate the adoption of the liquid-marble concept to biomedical fields, extending its applicability in the fields of biology and applied engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoojin Kim
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, Korea.
| | - Seokmin Oh
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, Korea.
| | - Heehyung Lee
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, Korea.
| | - Dongsoo Lee
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, Korea.
| | - Mihyun Kim
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, Korea.
| | - Heung Soo Baek
- Amorepacific Research and Development Center, Yongin, 17074, Korea.
| | - Won Seok Park
- Amorepacific Research and Development Center, Yongin, 17074, Korea.
| | - Eunmi Kim
- Amorepacific Research and Development Center, Yongin, 17074, Korea.
| | - Jae-Hyung Jang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, Korea.
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21
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Li H, Liu P, Gunawan R, Simeneh ZM, Liang C, Yao X, Yang M. Magnetothermal Miniature Reactors Based on Fe 3 O 4 Nanocube-Coated Liquid Marbles. Adv Healthc Mater 2021; 10:e2001658. [PMID: 33470539 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202001658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Liquid marbles have recently attracted much interest in various scientific fields because of their isolated environment and robustness. However, conventional liquid marbles lack a reliable heating mechanism, which is critical in many potential applications. Here, the development of iron oxide (Fe3 O4 ) nanocube-coated liquid marbles (iNLMs), which can be homogeneously heated with an alternating magnetic field (AMF) to as high as 86 °C, is reported. Through tuning the power of the AMF, the iNLMs canbe heated to desired temperatures in controllable patterns. Furthermore, multicenter and selective heating is realized based on the unique magnetothermal properties of iNLMs. As heatable miniature reactors, the iNLMs are further demonstrated to facilitate the kinetic study of temperature-dependent chemical reactions. DNA amplification is successfully performed in liquid marbles, achieving a 25% superior amplification rate compared with that in a common thermal cycler. These results confirm the feasibility of coating liquid marbles with Fe3 O4 nanocubes to form delicate magnetothermal miniature reactors, which provides a reliable method of applying liquid marbles in areas such as biosensor technology, point-of-care testing, and theranostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hualin Li
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Ave, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Biochip Technology, Biotechnology and Health Centre, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, P. R. China
| | - Peng Liu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Ave, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Biochip Technology, Biotechnology and Health Centre, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, P. R. China
| | - Renardi Gunawan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Ave, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Biochip Technology, Biotechnology and Health Centre, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, P. R. China
| | - Zemenu Mengistie Simeneh
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Ave, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Biochip Technology, Biotechnology and Health Centre, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, P. R. China
| | - Chen Liang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Ave, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Biochip Technology, Biotechnology and Health Centre, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, P. R. China
| | - Xi Yao
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Ave, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Biochip Technology, Biotechnology and Health Centre, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, P. R. China
| | - Mengsu Yang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Ave, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Biochip Technology, Biotechnology and Health Centre, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, P. R. China
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22
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Nguyen NK, Singha P, An H, Phan HP, Nguyen NT, Ooi CH. Electrostatically excited liquid marble as a micromixer. REACT CHEM ENG 2021. [DOI: 10.1039/d1re00121c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Liquid marble as a micromixer. Particles suspended in a transparent liquid marble is dispersed in a time lapse photo. The colour change from red to purple shows the particle position from the first frame to the last frame.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nhat-Khuong Nguyen
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre
- Griffith University
- Nathan 4111
- Australia
| | - Pradip Singha
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre
- Griffith University
- Nathan 4111
- Australia
| | - Hongjie An
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre
- Griffith University
- Nathan 4111
- Australia
| | - Hoang-Phuong Phan
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre
- Griffith University
- Nathan 4111
- Australia
| | - Nam-Trung Nguyen
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre
- Griffith University
- Nathan 4111
- Australia
| | - Chin Hong Ooi
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre
- Griffith University
- Nathan 4111
- Australia
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23
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Abstract
The need for miniaturised reaction systems has led to the development of various microreactor platforms, such as droplet-based microreactors. However, these microreactors possess inherent drawbacks, such as rapid evaporation and difficult handling, that limit their use in practical applications. Liquid marbles are droplets covered with hydrophobic particles and are a potential platform that can overcome the weaknesses of bare droplets. The coating particles completely isolate the interior liquids from the surrounding environment, thus conveniently encapsulating the reactions. Great efforts have been made over the past decade to demonstrate the feasibility of liquid marble-based microreactors for chemical and biological applications. This review systemically summarises state-of-the-art implementations of liquid marbles as microreactors. This paper also discusses the various aspects of liquid marble-based microreactors, such as the formation, manipulation, and future perspectives.
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24
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Zhu L, Wang B, Handschuh-Wang S, Zhou X. Liquid Metal-Based Soft Microfluidics. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2020; 16:e1903841. [PMID: 31573755 DOI: 10.1002/smll.201903841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Revised: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Motivated by the increasing demand of wearable and soft electronics, liquid metal (LM)-based microfluidics has been subjected to tremendous development in the past decade, especially in electronics, robotics, and related fields, due to the unique advantages of LMs that combines the conductivity and deformability all-in-one. LMs can be integrated as the core component into microfluidic systems in the form of either droplets/marbles or composites embedded by polymer materials with isotropic and anisotropic distribution. The LM microfluidic systems are found to have broad applications in deformable antennas, soft diodes, biomedical sensing chips, transient circuits, mechanically adaptive materials, etc. Herein, the recent progress in the development of LM-based microfluidics and their potential applications are summarized. The current challenges toward industrial applications and future research orientation of this field are also summarized and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lifei Zhu
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, P. R. China
- Guangdong Laboratory of ArtificialIntelligence and Digital Economy (SZ), Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, P. R. China
| | - Ben Wang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Stephan Handschuh-Wang
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, P. R. China
| | - Xuechang Zhou
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, P. R. China
- Guangdong Laboratory of ArtificialIntelligence and Digital Economy (SZ), Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, P. R. China
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25
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Draper TC, Phillips N, Weerasekera R, Mayne R, Fullarton C, de Lacy Costello BPJ, Adamatzky A. Contactless sensing of liquid marbles for detection, characterisation & computing. LAB ON A CHIP 2020; 20:136-146. [PMID: 31777892 DOI: 10.1039/c9lc01001g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Liquid marbles (LMs) are of growing interest in many fields, including microfluidics, microreactors, sensors, and signal carriers. The generation of LMs is generally performed manually, although there has recently been a burst of publications involving 'automatic marble makers'. The characteristics of a LM is dependent on many things, including how it is generated, it is therefore important to be able to characterise LMs once made. Here is presented a novel contactless LM sensor, constructed on a PCB board with a comb-like structure of 36 interlacing electrical traces, 100 μm wide and 100 μm apart. This cheap, scalable, and easy to use sensor exploits the inherent impedance (comprised of the electrical resistance, capacitive reactance and inductive reactance) of different LMs. With it, parameters of a LM can be easily determined, without interfering with the LM. These parameters are (1) particle size of the LM coating, (2) the concentration of a NaCl solution used as the LM core, and (3) the volume of the LM. Additionally, due to the comb-like nature of the sensor, the accurate positioning (down to the inter-trace spacing) of the LM can be ascertained. The new sensor has been shown to work under both static and dynamic (mobile) conditions. The capacitance of a LM was recorded to be 0.10 pF, which compares well with the calculated value of 0.12 pF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas C Draper
- Unconventional Computing Laboratory, University of the West of England, Bristol, BS161QY, UK.
| | - Neil Phillips
- Unconventional Computing Laboratory, University of the West of England, Bristol, BS161QY, UK.
| | - Roshan Weerasekera
- Unconventional Computing Laboratory, University of the West of England, Bristol, BS161QY, UK. and Department of Engineering Design and Mathematics, Faculty of the Environment and Technology, University of the West of England, Bristol, BS161QY, UK
| | - Richard Mayne
- Unconventional Computing Laboratory, University of the West of England, Bristol, BS161QY, UK. and Department of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Health and Applied Sciences, University of the West of England, Bristol, BS161QY, UK
| | - Claire Fullarton
- Unconventional Computing Laboratory, University of the West of England, Bristol, BS161QY, UK.
| | - Ben P J de Lacy Costello
- Unconventional Computing Laboratory, University of the West of England, Bristol, BS161QY, UK. and Institute of Biosensing Technology, Centre for Research in Biosciences, University of the West of England, Bristol, BS161QY, UK
| | - Andrew Adamatzky
- Unconventional Computing Laboratory, University of the West of England, Bristol, BS161QY, UK.
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26
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Wang B, Ji F, Yu J, Yang L, Wang Q, Zhang L. Bubble-Assisted Three-Dimensional Ensemble of Nanomotors for Improved Catalytic Performance. iScience 2019; 19:760-771. [PMID: 31499337 PMCID: PMC6734180 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2019.08.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 08/03/2019] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Combining catalysts with active colloidal matter could keep catalysts from aggregating, a major problem in chemical reactions. We report a kind of ensemble of bubble-cross-linked magnetic colloidal swarming nanomotors (B-MCS) with enhanced catalytic activity because of the local increase of the nanocatalyst concentration and three-dimensional (3D) fluid convection. Compared with the two-dimensional swarming collective without bubbles, the integral rotation was boosted because of the dynamic dewetting and increased slip length caused by the continuously ejected tiny bubbles. The bubbles cross-link the nanocatalysts and form stack along the vertical axis, generating the 3D network-like B-MCS ensemble with high dynamic stability and low drag resistance. The generated B-MCS ensemble exhibits controllable locomotion performance when applying a rotating magnetic field. Benefiting from locally increased catalyst concentration, good mobility, and 3D fluidic convection, the B-MCS ensemble offers a promising approach to heterogeneous catalysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Wang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Fengtong Ji
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jiangfan Yu
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Lidong Yang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Qianqian Wang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; Chow Yuk Ho Technology Centre for Innovative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; T Stone Robotics Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
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