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Xu A, Sun Y, Guo M. Monodisperse Polyaspartic Acid Derivative Microspheres for Potential Tumor Embolization Therapy. Macromol Biosci 2024; 24:e2400047. [PMID: 38589022 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202400047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Polyaspartic acid derivatives are a well-known kind of polypeptide with good biocompatibility and biodegradability, and thus have been widely used as biomedical materials, including drug-loaded nano-scale micelles or macroscopic hydrogels. In this work, for the first time, monodisperse polyaspartic acid derivative microspheres with diameter ranging from 120 to 350 µm for potential tumor embolization therapy are successfully prepared by single emulsion droplet microfluidic technique. The obtained microsphere shows fast cationic anticancer drug doxorubicin hydrochloride loading kinetics with high loading capacity, which is much better than those of the commercial ones. Additionally, drug release behaviors of the drug-loaded microspheres with different diameters in different media are also studied and discussed in detail. These results provide some new insights for the preparation and potential application of polyaspartic acid derivative-based monodisperse microspheres, especially for their potential application as embolic agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anqi Xu
- State-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Novel Functional Polymer Materials, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Functional Polymer Design and Application, Suzhou Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Design and Precision Synthesis, College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Yuchen Sun
- State-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Novel Functional Polymer Materials, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Functional Polymer Design and Application, Suzhou Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Design and Precision Synthesis, College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Mingyu Guo
- State-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Novel Functional Polymer Materials, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Functional Polymer Design and Application, Suzhou Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Design and Precision Synthesis, College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
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2
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Xing S, Liu Y. Functional micro-/nanostructured gallium-based liquid metal for biochemical sensing and imaging applications. Biosens Bioelectron 2024; 243:115795. [PMID: 37913588 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2023.115795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, liquid metals (LMs) have garnered increasing attention for their expanded applicability, and wide application potential in various research fields. Among them, gallium (Ga)-based LMs exhibit remarkable analytical performance in electrical and optical sensors, thanks to their excellent conductivity, large surface area, biocompatibility, small bandgap, and high elasticity. This review comprehensively summarizes the latest advancements in functional micro-/nanostructured Ga-based LMs for biochemical sensing and imaging applications. Firstly, the electrical, optical, and biocompatible features of Ga-based LM micro-/nanoparticles are briefly discussed, along with the manufacturing and functionalization processes. Subsequently, we demonstrate the utilization of Ga-based LMs in biochemical sensing techniques, encompassing electrochemistry, electrochemiluminescence, optical sensing techniques, and various biomedical imaging. Lastly, we present an insightful perspective on promising research directions and remaining challenges in LM-based biochemical sensing and imaging applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simin Xing
- Department of Chemistry, Beijing Key Laboratory for Analytical Methods and Instrumentation, Kay Lab of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry and Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Chemistry, Beijing Key Laboratory for Analytical Methods and Instrumentation, Kay Lab of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry and Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
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3
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Long F, Guo Y, Zhang Z, Wang J, Ren Y, Cheng Y, Xu G. Recent Progress of Droplet Microfluidic Emulsification Based Synthesis of Functional Microparticles. GLOBAL CHALLENGES (HOBOKEN, NJ) 2023; 7:2300063. [PMID: 37745820 PMCID: PMC10517312 DOI: 10.1002/gch2.202300063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
The remarkable control function over the functional material formation process enabled by droplet microfluidic emulsification approaches can lead to the efficient and one-step encapsulation of active substances in microparticles, with the microparticle characteristics well regulated. In comparison to the conventional fabrication methods, droplet microfluidic technology can not only construct microparticles with various shapes, but also provide excellent templates, which enrich and expand the application fields of microparticles. For instance, intersection with disciplines in pharmacy, life sciences, and others, modifying the structure of microspheres and appending functional materials can be completed in the preparation of microparticles. The as-prepared polymer particles have great potential in a wide range of applications for chemical analysis, heavy metal adsorption, and detection. This review systematically introduces the devices and basic principles of particle preparation using droplet microfluidic technology and discusses the research of functional microparticle formation with high monodispersity, involving a plethora of types including spherical, nonspherical, and Janus type, as well as core-shell, hole-shell, and controllable multicompartment particles. Moreover, this review paper also exhibits a critical analysis of the current status and existing challenges, and outlook of the future development in the emerging fields has been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Long
- Department of MechanicalMaterials and Manufacturing EngineeringUniversity of Nottingham Ningbo ChinaNingbo315100P. R. China
- Center of Materials Science and Optoelectronics EngineeringUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049P. R. China
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Additive Manufacturing MaterialsNingbo Institute of Materials Technology and EngineeringChinese Academy of SciencesNingbo315201P. R. China
- Research Group for Fluids and Thermal EngineeringUniversity of Nottingham Ningbo ChinaNingbo315100P. R. China
- Nottingham Ningbo China Beacons of Excellence Research and Innovation InstituteNingbo315040P. R. China
| | - Yanhong Guo
- Department of MechanicalMaterials and Manufacturing EngineeringUniversity of Nottingham Ningbo ChinaNingbo315100P. R. China
- Research Group for Fluids and Thermal EngineeringUniversity of Nottingham Ningbo ChinaNingbo315100P. R. China
| | - Zhiyu Zhang
- Department of MechanicalMaterials and Manufacturing EngineeringUniversity of Nottingham Ningbo ChinaNingbo315100P. R. China
- Research Group for Fluids and Thermal EngineeringUniversity of Nottingham Ningbo ChinaNingbo315100P. R. China
- Nottingham Ningbo China Beacons of Excellence Research and Innovation InstituteNingbo315040P. R. China
| | - Jing Wang
- Nottingham Ningbo China Beacons of Excellence Research and Innovation InstituteNingbo315040P. R. China
- Department of Electrical and Electronic EngineeringUniversity of Nottingham Ningbo ChinaNingbo315100P. R. China
| | - Yong Ren
- Department of MechanicalMaterials and Manufacturing EngineeringUniversity of Nottingham Ningbo ChinaNingbo315100P. R. China
- Research Group for Fluids and Thermal EngineeringUniversity of Nottingham Ningbo ChinaNingbo315100P. R. China
- Nottingham Ningbo China Beacons of Excellence Research and Innovation InstituteNingbo315040P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Carbonaceous Wastes Processing and Process Intensification Research of Zhejiang ProvinceUniversity of Nottingham Ningbo ChinaNingbo315100P. R. China
| | - Yuchuan Cheng
- Center of Materials Science and Optoelectronics EngineeringUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049P. R. China
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Additive Manufacturing MaterialsNingbo Institute of Materials Technology and EngineeringChinese Academy of SciencesNingbo315201P. R. China
| | - Gaojie Xu
- Center of Materials Science and Optoelectronics EngineeringUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049P. R. China
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Additive Manufacturing MaterialsNingbo Institute of Materials Technology and EngineeringChinese Academy of SciencesNingbo315201P. R. China
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Geng Y, Lv H, Xu S, Geng C. Controlled growth of lead-free cesium zirconium halide double perovskite nanocrystals through a microfluidic reactor. NANOSCALE 2023; 15:6371-6378. [PMID: 36916796 DOI: 10.1039/d2nr06727g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Vacancy-ordered Cs2ZrX6 (X = Cl, Br) double perovskite nanocrystals (NCs) have recently attracted increasing attention in optoelectronic applications due to their promising photoluminescence property, high photostability, and low toxicity. However, their ultra-fast reaction limits the growth control and kinetics study of these Cs2ZrX6 NCs. Here we report the synthesis of Cs2ZrX6 NCs through a microfluidic reactor and achievement of tunable emission wavelengths by controlling the NC size and hybrid halogen ions. Reaction kinetics study reveals that the amine ligand and reaction temperature play dominate roles in the growth and optical performance of the Cs2ZrX6 NCs. The effects of flow rate, precursors, and ligand ratio on the morphology and optical property of the NCs were also investigated. This study provides an insight into the growth kinetics of the Cs2ZrX6 perovskite NCs and their continuous production through a microfluidic reactor that could facilitate the development and optical application of lead-free vacancy-ordered double perovskite NCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yimin Geng
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Electronic Materials and Devices, School of Electronics and Information Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, 5340 Xiping Road, Tianjin 300401, P. R. China.
| | - Hao Lv
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Electronic Materials and Devices, School of Electronics and Information Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, 5340 Xiping Road, Tianjin 300401, P. R. China.
| | - Shu Xu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Electronic Materials and Devices, School of Electronics and Information Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, 5340 Xiping Road, Tianjin 300401, P. R. China.
| | - Chong Geng
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Electronic Materials and Devices, School of Electronics and Information Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, 5340 Xiping Road, Tianjin 300401, P. R. China.
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Kim M, Lim H, Ko SH. Liquid Metal Patterning and Unique Properties for Next-Generation Soft Electronics. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2205795. [PMID: 36642850 PMCID: PMC9951389 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202205795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Room-temperature liquid metal (LM)-based electronics is expected to bring advancements in future soft electronics owing to its conductivity, conformability, stretchability, and biocompatibility. However, various difficulties arise when patterning LM because of its rheological features such as fluidity and surface tension. Numerous attempts are made to overcome these difficulties, resulting in various LM-patterning methods. An appropriate choice of patterning method based on comprehensive understanding is necessary to fully utilize the unique properties. Therefore, the authors aim to provide thorough knowledge about patterning methods and unique properties for LM-based future soft electronics. First, essential considerations for LM-patterning are investigated. Then, LM-patterning methods-serial-patterning, parallel-patterning, intermetallic bond-assisted patterning, and molding/microfluidic injection-are categorized and investigated. Finally, perspectives on LM-based soft electronics with unique properties are provided. They include outstanding features of LM such as conformability, biocompatibility, permeability, restorability, and recyclability. Also, they include perspectives on future LM-based soft electronics in various areas such as radio frequency electronics, soft robots, and heterogeneous catalyst. LM-based soft devices are expected to permeate the daily lives if patterning methods and the aforementioned features are analyzed and utilized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minwoo Kim
- Applied Nano and Thermal Science LabDepartment of Mechanical EngineeringSeoul National University1 Gwanak‐ro, Gwanak‐guSeoul08826South Korea
| | - Hyungjun Lim
- Applied Nano and Thermal Science LabDepartment of Mechanical EngineeringSeoul National University1 Gwanak‐ro, Gwanak‐guSeoul08826South Korea
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringPohang University of Science and Technology77 Chungam‐ro, Nam‐guPohang37673South Korea
| | - Seung Hwan Ko
- Applied Nano and Thermal Science LabDepartment of Mechanical EngineeringSeoul National University1 Gwanak‐ro, Gwanak‐guSeoul08826South Korea
- Institute of Advanced Machinery and Design/Institute of Engineering ResearchSeoul National University1 Gwanak‐ro, Gwanak‐guSeoul08826South Korea
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6
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Chen S, Zhao R, Sun X, Wang H, Li L, Liu J. Toxicity and Biocompatibility of Liquid Metals. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2201924. [PMID: 36314401 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202201924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Recently, room-temperature liquid metals have attracted increasing attention from researchers owing to their excellent material properties. Systematic interpretation of the potential toxicity issues involved is essential for a wide range of applications, especially in the biomedical and healthcare fields. However, even with the exponential growth of related studies, investigation of the toxicological impact and possible hazards of liquid metals to organisms is still in its infancy. This review aims to provide a comprehensive summary of the current frontier of knowledge on liquid metal toxicology and biocompatibility in different environments. Based on recent studies, this review focuses on Ga and Bi-based in different states. It is necessary to evaluate their toxicity considering the rapid increase in research and utilization of such liquid metal composites. Finally, existing challenges are discussed and suggestions are provided for further investigation of liquid metal toxicology to clarify the toxicological mechanisms and strategies are provided to avoid adverse effects. In addition to resolving the doubts of public concern about the toxicity of liquid metals, this review is expected to promote the healthy and sustainable development of liquid metal-based materials and their use in diverse areas, especially those related to health care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sen Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Ruiqi Zhao
- Beijing Key Lab of Cryo-Biomedical Engineering and Key Lab of Cryogenics, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Xuyang Sun
- School of Medicine Engineering, Beijing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Hongzhang Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Lei Li
- Beijing Key Lab of Cryo-Biomedical Engineering and Key Lab of Cryogenics, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.,Beijing Key Lab of Cryo-Biomedical Engineering and Key Lab of Cryogenics, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
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7
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Liu Z, Zhang C, Zhao S, Pang Y, Wang X. Breakup dynamics and scaling laws of liquid metal droplets formed in a cross junction. J IND ENG CHEM 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jiec.2022.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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8
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Facile microfluidic device for droplets emulsion from small samples. J Flow Chem 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s41981-022-00229-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Duan L, Zhang Y, Zhao J, Zhang J, Li Q, Lu Q, Fu L, Liu J, Liu Q. Unique Surface Fluorescence Induced from the Core-Shell Structure of Gallium-Based Liquid Metals Prepared by Thermal Oxidation Processing. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:39654-39664. [PMID: 35979950 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c12420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Liquid metals (LMs) have emerged as promising functional materials that combine the properties of both liquid and metal. These characteristics enabled them to find applications in many fields. However, the LMs usually can only display a silver-white physical appearance, which limits their further applications in the fields with the imposition of stringent requirements for color and aesthetics. Herein, we report that the surface of LMs was transformed directly from metal to fluorescent semiconductor layer by an example of eutectic GaInSn (eGaInSn) induced by thermal oxidation. Specifically, a core-shell structure is formed from the fluorescent layer and the LMs. The shell endows the LMs with fluorescence without affecting their interior fluidity and conductivity. In particular, the formation process as well as the degree of crystallization, phase transformation, and light emission of the fluorescent oxide shell on the surface of LMs is regulated by the component content. A thorough analysis of surface morphology, composition, structure, and properties of the fluorescent shell suggests that the Ga2O3 layer is formed on the surface of gallium-based LMs after their immersion in deionized water. Subsequently, thermal oxidation results in the formation of the β-Ga2O3 shell on the surface of liquid metals. Importantly, abundant oxygen vacancies (VO) in β-Ga2O3 as the donors and the gallium vacancies (VGa), gallium-oxygen vacancy pairs (VO-VGa), defect energy levels, and intrinsic defects as the acceptors enabled the light emission. The fluorescent LMs have promising potential for flexible lighting and displays, anticounterfeiting measures, sensing, and chameleon robots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangfei Duan
- Yunnan Key Laboratory for Micro/Nano Materials & Technology, International Joint Research Center for Optoelectronic and Energy Materials, School of Materials and Energy, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, China
| | - Yumin Zhang
- Yunnan Key Laboratory for Micro/Nano Materials & Technology, International Joint Research Center for Optoelectronic and Energy Materials, School of Materials and Energy, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, China
| | - Jianhong Zhao
- Yunnan Key Laboratory for Micro/Nano Materials & Technology, International Joint Research Center for Optoelectronic and Energy Materials, School of Materials and Energy, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- Yunnan Key Laboratory for Micro/Nano Materials & Technology, International Joint Research Center for Optoelectronic and Energy Materials, School of Materials and Energy, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, China
| | - Qian Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Cryogenics and Beijing Key Laboratory of Cryo- Biomedical Engineering, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Qingjie Lu
- Yunnan Key Laboratory for Micro/Nano Materials & Technology, International Joint Research Center for Optoelectronic and Energy Materials, School of Materials and Energy, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, China
| | - Li Fu
- Yunnan Key Laboratory for Micro/Nano Materials & Technology, International Joint Research Center for Optoelectronic and Energy Materials, School of Materials and Energy, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, China
| | - Jing Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Cryogenics and Beijing Key Laboratory of Cryo- Biomedical Engineering, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering School of Medicine Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Qingju Liu
- Yunnan Key Laboratory for Micro/Nano Materials & Technology, International Joint Research Center for Optoelectronic and Energy Materials, School of Materials and Energy, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, China
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Duan L, Zhang Y, Zhao J, Zhang J, Li Q, Chen Y, Liu J, Liu Q. Unique and Excellent Paintable Liquid Metal for Fluorescent Displays. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:23951-23963. [PMID: 35537086 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c02714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
A liquid metal (LM) generally has excellent electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, flexibility, fluidity, and reflectivity. Innovative electronics using a LM to paint colorful fluorescent patterns may be applied to many important fields. Herein we propose, for the first time, the use of a LM to paint fluorescent patterns in the field of natural science. An LM containing a main-group metal (Ga50.25Bi8.28In28.2Sn13.27) is used to paint a uniform alloy film on a ceramic substrate. The painting is not restricted by any curved surface, shape, or size, which therefore gives the LM diverse adaptability. We have adopted the strategy of "painting-annealing-dealloying" through which LM can easily be diffused and doped into the substrate to produce various defects. Defects, my themselves or through their interactions, can produce different colors of emitted light. The primary fluorescence colors, such as purple, yellow, blue, and white, have been painted with the LM. Importantly, the brightness and color coordinates can be adjusted by changing the LM composition or annealing temperature, and intricate, delicate, colorful fluorescence patterns can be produced. Due to the unique painting form, colorful fluorescence, high stability, corrosion resistance, and low cost of the technique used for the LM, it can be used for displays, lighting panels, flexible electronic circuits, anticounterfeiting devices, and sensors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangfei Duan
- Yunnan Key Laboratory for Micro/Nano Materials & Technology, International Joint Research Center for Optoelectronic and Energy Materials, School of Materials and Energy, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, People's Republic of China
| | - Yumin Zhang
- Yunnan Key Laboratory for Micro/Nano Materials & Technology, International Joint Research Center for Optoelectronic and Energy Materials, School of Materials and Energy, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianhong Zhao
- Yunnan Key Laboratory for Micro/Nano Materials & Technology, International Joint Research Center for Optoelectronic and Energy Materials, School of Materials and Energy, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, People's Republic of China
| | - Jin Zhang
- Yunnan Key Laboratory for Micro/Nano Materials & Technology, International Joint Research Center for Optoelectronic and Energy Materials, School of Materials and Energy, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Cryogenics and Beijing Key Laboratory of Cryo- Biomedical Engineering, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Chen
- Yunnan Key Laboratory for Micro/Nano Materials & Technology, International Joint Research Center for Optoelectronic and Energy Materials, School of Materials and Energy, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Cryogenics and Beijing Key Laboratory of Cryo- Biomedical Engineering, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, People's Republic of China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, People's Republic of China
| | - Qingju Liu
- Yunnan Key Laboratory for Micro/Nano Materials & Technology, International Joint Research Center for Optoelectronic and Energy Materials, School of Materials and Energy, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, People's Republic of China
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Qin Y, Lu X, Que H, Wang D, He T, Liang D, Liu X, Chen J, Ding C, Xiu P, Xu C, Gu X. Preparation and Characterization of Pendimethalin Microcapsules Based on Microfluidic Technology. ACS OMEGA 2021; 6:34160-34172. [PMID: 34926964 PMCID: PMC8675169 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c05903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Microencapsulation of pesticides is a promising attempt to reduce environmental pollution and prevent the active ingredients from the interference of external factors. In this paper, pendimethalin microcapsules were prepared by the interfacial polymerization of 4,4-methylenediphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) and ethylenediamine (EDA) based on microfluidic technology. Effects of the microchannel structure, reaction temperature, surfactant type, and fluid flow rates were investigated and evaluated. The results showed that pendimethalin microcapsules prepared under suitable conditions had a smooth surface, good monodispersity, a high encapsulation efficiency (96.7%), and excellent thermal stability. The size and morphology control of microcapsules were realized by adjusting the flow rates of the continuous phase and the hydrophilic monomer EDA aqueous solution. The release of pendimethalin had a sustained release characteristic that was closely related to the morphology of microcapsules. Compared with the pendimethalin emulsifiable concentrate, pendimethalin microcapsules exhibited outstanding herbicidal activity in the weed control experiments. Therefore, pendimethalin microcapsules with tunable properties were successfully obtained from the microfluidic device and showed great potential in agricultural applications.
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12
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Park Y, Lee G, Jang J, Yun SM, Kim E, Park J. Liquid Metal-Based Soft Electronics for Wearable Healthcare. Adv Healthc Mater 2021; 10:e2002280. [PMID: 33724723 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202002280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Wearable healthcare devices have garnered substantial interest for the realization of personal health management by monitoring the physiological parameters of individuals. Attaining the integrity between the devices and the biological interfaces is one of the greatest challenges to achieving high-quality body information in dynamic conditions. Liquid metals, which exist in the liquid phase at room temperatures, are advanced intensively as conductors for deformable devices because of their excellent stretchability and self-healing ability. The unique surface chemistry of liquid metals allows the development of various sensors and devices in wearable form. Also, the biocompatibility of liquid metals, which is verified through numerous biomedical applications, holds immense potential in uses on the surface and inside of a living body. Here, the recent progress of liquid metal-based wearable electronic devices for healthcare with respect to the featured properties and the processing technologies is discussed. Representative examples of applications such as biosensors, neural interfaces, and a soft interconnection for devices are reviewed. The current challenges and prospects for further development are also discussed, and the future directions of advances in the latest research are explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young‐Geun Park
- KIURI Institute Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
- Nano Science Technology Institute Department of Materials Science and Engineering Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
| | - Ga‐Yeon Lee
- KIURI Institute Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
| | - Jiuk Jang
- Nano Science Technology Institute Department of Materials Science and Engineering Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
| | - Su Min Yun
- Nano Science Technology Institute Department of Materials Science and Engineering Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
| | - Enji Kim
- Nano Science Technology Institute Department of Materials Science and Engineering Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
| | - Jang‐Ung Park
- KIURI Institute Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
- Nano Science Technology Institute Department of Materials Science and Engineering Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
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Wang S, Zhu Z, Ma C, Qiao R, Yang C, Xu RX, Si T. Generation of Nonspherical Liquid Metal Microparticles with Tunable Shapes Exhibiting an Electrostatic-Responsive Performance. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:16677-16687. [PMID: 33813828 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c01026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Nonspherical liquid metal microparticles (NLMs) show extraordinary potential in various applications due to their multifunctional and structural advantages. To one-step-produce shaped NLMs with high efficiency, high controllability, and free of template, a facile microfluidic strategy named rotary flow shearing (RFS) is reported. A high-speed viscous shearing flow is provided by two counter-rotating rotors in the carrier fluid, inducing continuous pinch-off of liquid metal flowing from a capillary tube positioned in face of the slit between two rotors. The real-time oxidation realizes the rapid solidification of the pinching neck and the liquid metal surface during the RFS process, resulting in massive NLMs. Different from other microfluidic methods, the RFS enables tunable shapes of NLMs, especially for working materials at high viscosities. The collected NLMs exhibit special electrostatic-responsive performances including translation, rotation, reciprocation, and lining up under the manipulation of an external electric field. Such NLMs can be promisingly used for the construction of novel micromotors and soft electronics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyu Wang
- Department of Precision Machinery and Precision Instrumentation, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Scientific Instrumentation of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Zhiqiang Zhu
- Department of Precision Machinery and Precision Instrumentation, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Scientific Instrumentation of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Canzhen Ma
- Department of Precision Machinery and Precision Instrumentation, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Scientific Instrumentation of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Ran Qiao
- Department of Modern Mechanics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Chaoyu Yang
- Department of Precision Machinery and Precision Instrumentation, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Scientific Instrumentation of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Ronald X Xu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Ting Si
- Department of Modern Mechanics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
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14
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Xu J, Guo H, Ding H, Wang Q, Tang Z, Li Z, Sun G. Printable and Recyclable Conductive Ink Based on a Liquid Metal with Excellent Surface Wettability for Flexible Electronics. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:7443-7452. [PMID: 33528998 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.0c20549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Flexible electronics greatly facilitate human life due to their convenience and comfortable utilization. Liquid metals are an ideal candidate for flexible devices; however, the high surface tension and poor surface wettability restrict their application on diverse substrates. Herein, a printable and recyclable ink composed of poly(vinyl alcohol) and a liquid metal (PVA-LM) was developed to resolve these problems. The materials were designed considering the compatibility between PVA and the liquid metal, and the composite theory was applied to determine the component proportion. The developed composites improved the surface wettability of the liquid metal on diverse substrates, and three-dimensional (3D) printing technology was chosen to maximize the use of this material. Moreover, the PVA-LM ink showed excellent conductivity of about 1.3 × 105 S/m after being turned on, which favored the designing of alarm systems and object locators. The flexible sensors produced with this ink have broad application, high sensitivity, and superstable signal generation even after 200 cycles. When acting as strain sensors, the constructed composites had high sensitivity for monitoring the human movements. Furthermore, liquid metals in printed products can be recycled under alkaline conditions. This study opens a new direction for the next generation of environmentally friendly flexible devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianyu Xu
- Joint Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa 999078, Macau SAR, China
| | - Hongda Guo
- Joint Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa 999078, Macau SAR, China
| | - Hongyao Ding
- Joint Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa 999078, Macau SAR, China
| | - Qiao Wang
- Joint Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa 999078, Macau SAR, China
| | - Ziqing Tang
- Joint Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa 999078, Macau SAR, China
| | - Zongjin Li
- Joint Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa 999078, Macau SAR, China
| | - Guoxing Sun
- Joint Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa 999078, Macau SAR, China
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15
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Zhang M, Wang X, Huang Z, Rao W. Liquid Metal Based Flexible and Implantable Biosensors. BIOSENSORS 2020; 10:E170. [PMID: 33182535 PMCID: PMC7696291 DOI: 10.3390/bios10110170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Biosensors are the core elements for obtaining significant physiological information from living organisms. To better sense life information, flexible biosensors and implantable sensors that are highly compatible with organisms are favored by researchers. Moreover, materials for preparing a new generation of flexible sensors have also received attention. Liquid metal is a liquid-state metallic material with a low melting point at or around room temperature. Owing to its high electrical conductivity, low toxicity, and superior fluidity, liquid metal is emerging as a highly desirable candidate in biosensors. This paper is dedicated to reviewing state-of-the-art applications in biosensors that are expounded from seven aspects, including pressure sensor, strain sensor, gas sensor, temperature sensor, electrical sensor, optical sensor, and multifunctional sensor, respectively. The fundamental scientific and technological challenges lying behind these recommendations are outlined. Finally, the perspective of liquid metal-based biosensors is present, which stimulates the upcoming design of biosensors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingkuan Zhang
- Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Cryogenics, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Beijing 100190, China; (M.Z.); (X.W.)
- Beijing Key Lab of CryoBiomedical Engineering and Key Lab of Cryogenics, Beijing 100190, China
- School of Engineering Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100039, China
| | - Xiaohong Wang
- Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Cryogenics, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Beijing 100190, China; (M.Z.); (X.W.)
- Beijing Key Lab of CryoBiomedical Engineering and Key Lab of Cryogenics, Beijing 100190, China
- School of Future Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhiping Huang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Imperial College London, London SW7 2BU, UK;
| | - Wei Rao
- Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Cryogenics, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Beijing 100190, China; (M.Z.); (X.W.)
- Beijing Key Lab of CryoBiomedical Engineering and Key Lab of Cryogenics, Beijing 100190, China
- School of Future Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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16
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Lin P, Chen H, Li A, Zhuang H, Chen Z, Xie Y, Zhou H, Mo S, Chen Y, Lu X, Cheng Z. Bioinspired Multiple Stimuli-Responsive Optical Microcapsules Enabled by Microfluidics. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2020; 12:46788-46796. [PMID: 32935962 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.0c14698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Optical microcapsules encapsulating optical materials inside a symmetric spherical confinement are significant elements for the construction of optical units and the integration of optical arrays. However, the multiple stimuli-responsive characteristic of optical microcapsules still remains a challenge due to the insuperable physical barrier between the optical material core and the outside shell and the lack of effective mechanisms to trigger the dynamic switch of the encapsulated optical materials. Inspired by the dual-mode optical modulation of chameleon skins, a novel biomimetic binary optical microcapsule that combines the visible light reflection of chiral nematic liquid crystals and photoluminescence emission of rare-earth complexes is assembled by microfluidic emulsification and interfacial polymerization. The reflected color, fluorescent intensity, and size of the optical microcapsules are facilely controlled in the microfluidic chip by adjusting the composition and flow rate of the injected fluids. Most importantly, the biomimetic binary optical microcapsules demonstrate three reversible responsive behaviors, thermotropic reflection evolution, temperature-dependent fluorescence emission, and Fredericks electro-optical response. The bioinspired multiple stimuli-responsive optical microcapsules enabled by microfluidics provide a templated strategy to manufacture the next generation of intelligent optical units and to achieve the dynamic response of hybrid photonic devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengcheng Lin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory on Functional Soft Condensed Matter, School of Materials and Energy, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Hongbin Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory on Functional Soft Condensed Matter, School of Materials and Energy, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Ang Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory on Functional Soft Condensed Matter, School of Materials and Energy, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Haoquan Zhuang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory on Functional Soft Condensed Matter, School of Materials and Energy, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Zeting Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory on Functional Soft Condensed Matter, School of Materials and Energy, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yongji Xie
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory on Functional Soft Condensed Matter, School of Materials and Energy, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Hanguo Zhou
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory on Functional Soft Condensed Matter, School of Materials and Energy, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Songping Mo
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory on Functional Soft Condensed Matter, School of Materials and Energy, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Ying Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory on Functional Soft Condensed Matter, School of Materials and Energy, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Xiang Lu
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Processing Engineering of the Ministry of Education, National Engineering Research Center of Novel Equipment for Polymer Processing, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Technique and Equipment for Macromolecular Advanced Manufacturing, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510641, China
| | - Zhengdong Cheng
- Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843-3122, United States
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17
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Xu B, Ye F, Chang G, Li R. A Simple and Cost-Effective Method for Producing Stable Surfactant-Coated EGaIn Liquid Metal Nanodroplets. MATERIALS 2020; 13:ma13173753. [PMID: 32854305 PMCID: PMC7503906 DOI: 10.3390/ma13173753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Liquid metals show unparalleled advantages in printable circuits, flexible wear, drug carriers, and electromagnetic shielding. However, the efficient and large-scale preparation of liquid metal nanodroplets (LM NDs) remains a significant challenge. Here, we propose a simple and efficient method for the large-scale preparation of stable eutectic gallium indium nanodroplets (EGaIn NDs). We compared different preparation methods and found that droplets with smaller particle sizes could quickly be produced using a shaking technique. The size of EGaIn NDs produced using this technique can reach 200 nm in 30 min and 100 nm in 240 min. Benefiting from the simple method, various surfactants can directly modify the surface of the EGaIn NDs to stabilize the prepared droplets. In addition, we discovered that shaking in an ice bath produced spherical nanodroplets, and after shaking for 30 min in a non-ice bath, rod-shaped gallium oxide hydroxide (GaOOH) appeared. Furthermore, the EGaIn NDs we produced have excellent stability-after storage at room temperature for 30 days, the particle size and morphology change little. The excellent stability of the produced EGaIn NDs provides a wider application of liquid metals in the fields of drug delivery, electromagnetic shielding, conductive inks, printed circuits, etc.
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18
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Shu J, Lu Y, Wang E, Li X, Tang SY, Zhao S, Zhou X, Sun L, Li W, Zhang S. Particle-Based Porous Materials for the Rapid and Spontaneous Diffusion of Liquid Metals. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2020; 12:11163-11170. [PMID: 32037788 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.9b20124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Gallium-based room-temperature liquid metals have enormous potential for realizing various applications in electronic devices, heat flow management, and soft actuators. Filling narrow spaces with a liquid metal is of great importance in rapid prototyping and circuit printing. However, it is relatively difficult to stretch or spread liquid metals into desired patterns because of their large surface tension. Here, we propose a method to fabricate a particle-based porous material which can enable the rapid and spontaneous diffusion of liquid metals within the material under a capillary force. Remarkably, such a method can allow liquid metal to diffuse along complex structures and even overcome the effect of gravity despite their large densities. We further demonstrate that the developed method can be utilized for prototyping complex three-dimensional (3D) structures via direct casting and connecting individual parts or by 3D printing. As such, we believe that the presented technique holds great promise for the development of additive manufacturing, rapid prototyping, and soft electronics using liquid metals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Shu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Precision Machinery and Precision Instrumentation, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China
| | - Yangming Lu
- Robotics and Microsystems Center, School of Mechanical and Electric Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou215000, China
| | - Erlong Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Precision Machinery and Precision Instrumentation, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China
| | - Xiangpeng Li
- Robotics and Microsystems Center, School of Mechanical and Electric Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou215000, China
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Optics, Changchun Institute of Optics, Changchun 130033, China
| | - Shi-Yang Tang
- School of Mechanical, Materials, Mechatronic and Biomedical Engineering, University of Wollongong, Wollongong 2522, Australia
| | - Sizepeng Zhao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Precision Machinery and Precision Instrumentation, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China
| | - Xiangbo Zhou
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Precision Machinery and Precision Instrumentation, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China
| | - Lining Sun
- Robotics and Microsystems Center, School of Mechanical and Electric Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou215000, China
| | - Weihua Li
- School of Mechanical, Materials, Mechatronic and Biomedical Engineering, University of Wollongong, Wollongong 2522, Australia
| | - Shiwu Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Precision Machinery and Precision Instrumentation, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China
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19
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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: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [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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20
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Ren Y, Sun X, Liu J. Advances in Liquid Metal-Enabled Flexible and Wearable Sensors. MICROMACHINES 2020; 11:mi11020200. [PMID: 32075215 PMCID: PMC7074621 DOI: 10.3390/mi11020200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Sensors are core elements to directly obtain information from surrounding objects for further detecting, judging and controlling purposes. With the rapid development of soft electronics, flexible sensors have made considerable progress, and can better fit the objects to detect and, thus respond to changes more sensitively. Recently, as a newly emerging electronic ink, liquid metal is being increasingly investigated to realize various electronic elements, especially soft ones. Compared to conventional soft sensors, the introduction of liquid metal shows rather unique advantages. Due to excellent flexibility and conductivity, liquid-metal soft sensors present high enhancement in sensitivity and precision, thus producing many profound applications. So far, a series of flexible and wearable sensors based on liquid metal have been designed and tested. Their applications have also witnessed a growing exploration in biomedical areas, including health-monitoring, electronic skin, wearable devices and intelligent robots etc. This article presents a systematic review of the typical progress of liquid metal-enabled soft sensors, including material innovations, fabrication strategies, fundamental principles, representative application examples, and so on. The perspectives of liquid-metal soft sensors is finally interpreted to conclude the future challenges and opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Ren
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China;
| | - Xuyang Sun
- Beijing Key Lab of CryoBiomedical Engineering and Key Lab of Cryogenics, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China;
- Beijing Key Lab of CryoBiomedical Engineering and Key Lab of Cryogenics, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: 86-10-62794896
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21
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Numerical Simulation and Experimental Validation of Liquid Metal Droplet Formation in a Co-Flowing Capillary Microfluidic Device. MICROMACHINES 2020; 11:mi11020169. [PMID: 32033467 PMCID: PMC7074579 DOI: 10.3390/mi11020169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Revised: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
A two-phase flow axisymmetric numerical model was proposed to understand liquid metal droplet formation in a co-flowing capillary microfluidics device based on a phase field model. The droplet detachment processes were observed in the experiment and are in good agreement with the simulation method. The effects of the viscosities and flowrates of the continuous phase fluid, interfacial tension as well as the wetting property of the metallic needle against the bulk liquid metal on the droplet formation and production rate were numerically investigated. It was found that the droplet diameter decreased with the increment of the viscosities and flowrates of the outer phase carrier fluid. The dispersed phase fluid with high interfacial tension tended to prolong the time for equilibrium between the viscous drag force and interfacial tension on the liquid–liquid fluid surface, delaying the droplet to be pinched off from the capillary orifice and causing large droplet diameter. Finally, the wetting performance of the metallic needle against the liquid metal was explored. The result indicate that the droplet diameter became less dependent on the contact angle while the size distribution of the liquid metal droplet was affected by their wetting performance. A more hydrophilic wetting performance were expected to prepare liquid metal droplet with more monodispersity. The numerical model and simulation results provide the feasibility of predicting the droplet formation with a high surface tension in a glass capillary microfluidic device.
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Campbell ZS, Abolhasani M. Facile synthesis of anhydrous microparticles using plug-and-play microfluidic reactors. REACT CHEM ENG 2020. [DOI: 10.1039/d0re00193g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Microfluidic materials synthesis techniques are an ideal approach for controlled synthesis of anhydrous microparticles. In this article, we highlight the recent developments using plug-and-play microreactors for anhydrous microparticle synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary S. Campbell
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
- North Carolina State University
- Raleigh
- USA
| | - Milad Abolhasani
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
- North Carolina State University
- Raleigh
- USA
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