Enhancement of Acoustic Energy Density in Bulk-Wave-Acoustophoresis Devices Using Side Actuation

Abstract

The translation of acoustophoresis (here the handling of bioparticles using acoustic radiation force) to clinical use requires stronger acoustic fields and higher throughput than currently available. The authors find that the acoustic energy density in a microchannel and the efficiency of such a device can be drastically enhanced by actuating from the side, instead of conventional bottom actuation. Side actuation leads to significant symmetry breaking in channel-wall vibration, which is key to achieving strong acoustic fields. The resulting improvements in particle focusing as well as throughput show clear potential for acoustophoresis technology in the clinic.

Topics & Concepts