scholarly journals Synthesis of Nanoscale Liposomes via Low-Cost Microfluidic Systems

Micromachines ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 11 (12) ◽  
pp. 1050
Author(s):  
Andres Aranguren ◽  
Carlos E. Torres ◽  
Carolina Muñoz-Camargo ◽  
Johann F. Osma ◽  
Juan C. Cruz
Keyword(s):  
Flow Rate ◽  
Colloidal Stability ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Continuous Phase ◽  
Flow Rate Ratio ◽  
Synthesis Methods ◽  
Microfluidic Systems ◽  
Uniform Size ◽  
Pmma Sheet ◽  
Potential Applications

We describe the manufacture of low-cost microfluidic systems to produce nanoscale liposomes with highly uniform size distributions (i.e., low polydispersity indexes (PDI)) and acceptable colloidal stability. This was achieved by exploiting a Y-junction device followed by a serpentine micromixer geometry to facilitate the diffusion between the mixing phases (i.e., continuous and dispersed) via advective processes. Two different geometries were studied. In the first one, the microchannels were engraved with a laser cutting machine on a polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) sheet and covered with another PMMA sheet to form a two-layer device. In the second one, microchannels were not engraved but through-hole cut on a PMMA sheet and encased by a top and a bottom PMMA sheet to form a three-layer device. The devices were tested out by putting in contact lipids dissolved in alcohol as the dispersed phase and water as the continuous phase to self-assemble the liposomes. By fixing the total flow rate (TFR) and varying the flow rate ratio (FRR), we obtained most liposomes with average hydrodynamic diameters ranging from 188 ± 61 to 1312 ± 373 nm and 0.30 ± 0.09 PDI values. Such liposomes were obtained by changing the FRR from 5:1 to 2:1. Our results approached those obtained by conventional bulk synthesis methods such as a thin hydration bilayer and freeze-thaw, which produced liposomes with diameters ranging from 200 ± 38 to 250 ± 38 nm and 0.30 ± 0.05 PDI values. The produced liposomes might find several potential applications in the biomedical field, particularly in encapsulation and drug delivery.

scholarly journals Prediction Models of Droplet Characteristics Based on the Locally Convergent Configurations in PMMA Microchips

2021 ◽  
Vol 2097 (1) ◽  
pp. 012027
Author(s):  
Zhongxin Liu ◽  
Zhiliang Wang ◽  
Chao Wang ◽  
Jinsong Zhang
Keyword(s):  
Flow Rate ◽  
Relative Position ◽  
Prediction Models ◽  
Continuous Phase ◽  
Lubricating Oil ◽  
Flow Rate Ratio ◽  
Phase Flow ◽  
Exponential Relationship ◽  
Two Phase ◽  
Relationship Of

Abstract This paper novel designed the local convergence configuration in the coaxial channels to study the two-phase flow (lubricating oil (continuous phase, flow rate Q c)/deionized water (dispersed phase, flow rate Q d)). Two geometric control variables, the relative position (x) and tapering characteristics (α), had the different effects on the droplet formation. The increase of relative position x caused the higher frequency and finer droplets, and the increase of convergence angle α, took the opposite effects. The results indicated that the equivalent dimensionless droplet length Ld/Wout and the flow rate ratio Qd/Qc had an exponential relationship of about 1/2. Similarly, it was found that the dispersed droplets generating frequency and the two-phase capillary number, CaTP = uTPμc/σ, had an exponential relationship. The advantage of the convergent configurations in micro-channel was the size and efficiency of droplet generation was very favorable to be controlled by α and x.

Slug Formation Analysis of Liquid–Liquid Two-Phase Flow in T-Junction Microchannels

2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (5) ◽  
Author(s):  
Jin-yuan Qian ◽  
Xiao-juan Li ◽  
Zan Wu ◽  
Zhi-jiang Jin ◽  
Junhui Zhang ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Flow Rate ◽  
Rate Ratio ◽  
Two Phase Flow ◽  
Continuous Phase ◽  
Channel Width ◽  
Flow Rate Ratio ◽  
Width Ratio ◽  
Phase Flow ◽  
Channel Depth ◽  
Two Phase

Slug flow is a common flow pattern in the liquid–liquid two-phase flow in microchannels. It is an ideal pattern for mass transfer enhancement. Many factors influence the slug formation such as the channel geometries (channel widths, channel depth), flow rates of the two phase, and physical properties. In this paper, in order to investigate the liquid–liquid two-phase slug formation in a T-junction microchannel quantitatively, the volume of fluid (VOF) method is adopted to simulate the whole slug formation process. With the validated model, the effects of the disperse phase channel width, channel depth, and two-phase flow rate ratio on slug formation frequency and slug size (slug volume and slug length) are analyzed with dimensionless parameters. Dimensionless parameters include the disperse-to-continuous phase channel width ratio, height-to-width ratio, and two-phase flow rate ratio. Results show that both the channel geometry and two-phase flow rate ratio have a significant influence on slug formation. Compared with the conventional slug formation stages, a new stage called the lag stage emerges when the disperse phase channel width decreases to half of the continuous phase channel width. When the channel depth decreases to one third of the continuous phase channel width, the flow patterns become unstable and vary with the two-phase flow rate ratio. Moreover, empirical correlations are proposed to predict the slug formation frequency. The correlation between slug formation frequency and slug volume is quantified.

scholarly journals Lattice Boltzmann Simulation of Droplet Generation in a Microfluidic Cross-Junction

2011 ◽  
Vol 9 (5) ◽  
pp. 1235-1256 ◽  
Author(s):  
Haihu Liu ◽  
Yonghao Zhang
Keyword(s):  
Droplet Size ◽  
Flow Rate ◽  
Lattice Boltzmann ◽  
Capillary Number ◽  
Rate Ratio ◽  
Viscosity Ratio ◽  
Droplet Formation ◽  
Continuous Phase ◽  
Viscous Force ◽  
Flow Rate Ratio

AbstractUsing the lattice Boltzmann multiphase model, numerical simulations have been performed to understand the dynamics of droplet formation in a microfluidic cross-junction. The influence of capillary number, flow rate ratio, viscosity ratio, and viscosity of the continuous phase on droplet formation has been systematically studied over a wide range of capillary numbers. Two different regimes, namely the squeezinglike regime and the dripping regime, are clearly identified with the transition occurring at a critical capillary number Cacr. Generally, large flow rate ratio is expected to produce big droplets, while increasing capillary number will reduce droplet size. In the squeezing-like regime (Ca ≤ Cacr), droplet breakup process is dominated by the squeezing pressure and the viscous force; while in the dripping regime (Ca ≤ Cacr), the viscous force is dominant and the droplet size becomes independent of the flow rate ratio as the capillary number increases. In addition, the droplet size weakly depends on the viscosity ratio in both regimes and decreases when the viscosity of the continuous phase increases. Finally, a scaling law is established to predict the droplet size.

Preparate and Properties on Rare Earth PVA Complex Nanofibers

2014 ◽  
Vol 894 ◽  
pp. 332-335
Author(s):  
Di Zhang ◽  
Qing Shan Li ◽  
Li Jiao Zhao
Keyword(s):  
Composite Nanofibers ◽  
Single Phase ◽  
Raw Materials ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Impact Resistance ◽  
Synthesis Method ◽  
Research Field ◽  
Uniform Size ◽  
Research Directions ◽  
Potential Applications

Nanofiber is an important part in nanomaterials research field, and the polymer nanofibers is one of the important research directions. RE, which has unique electronic structure, the optical, electrical and magnetic aspects of the special nature, combine with the polymer, that has rich raw materials, simple synthesis method, easy processing, high impact resistance, light weight and low cost advantages, to get a new kind materials of practical uses and potential applications. This topic was prepared PVA/Sm (NO3)3composite nanofibers using an electrostatic spinning, and the PVA/Sm (NO3)3nanofibers were treated at an appropriate temperature to obtain Sm2O3nanofibers. Samples were characterized and analyzed by the SEM, FTIR, XRD, TG-DTA and other modern means. The results show that the surface of PVA/Sm (NO3)3composite fibers is smooth, uniform size and amorphous. Sm (NO3)3is not interact with the PVA groups, and the diameter of fiber is 200nm. After firing, the diameter of fibers was reduced to 100nm. PVA, Sm (NO3)3and the water are completely decomposed at 600°C or more, finally obtained Sm2O3 nanofibers of single-phase crystalline state.

Numerical Simulation of the Droplet Formation in a T-Junction Microchannel by a Level-Set Method

2018 ◽  
Vol 71 (12) ◽  
pp. 957 ◽  
Author(s):  
Wenbo Han ◽  
Xueye Chen
Keyword(s):  
Numerical Simulation ◽  
Contact Angle ◽  
Interfacial Tension ◽  
Level Set Method ◽  
Level Set ◽  
Flow Rate ◽  
Rate Ratio ◽  
Continuous Phase ◽  
Flow Rate Ratio ◽  
Control Parameters

To satisfy the increasingly high demands in many applications of microfluidics, the size of the droplet needs accurate control. In this paper, a level-set method provides a useful method for studying the physical mechanism and potential mechanism of two-phase flow. A detailed three-dimensional numerical simulation of microfluidics was carried out to systematically study the generation of micro-droplets and the effective diameter of droplets with different control parameters such as the flow rate ratio, the continuous phase viscosity, the interfacial tension, and the contact angle. The effect of altering the pressure at the x coordinate of the main channel during the droplet formation was analysed. As the simulation results show, the above control parameters have a great influence on the formation of droplets and the size of the droplet. The effective droplet diameter increases when the flow rate ratio and the interfacial tension increase. It decreases when the continuous phase viscosity and the contact angle increase.

scholarly journals Examining the Effect of Flow Rate Ratio on Droplet Generation and Regime Transition in a Microfluidic T-Junction at Constant Capillary Numbers

Inventions ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 3 (3) ◽  
pp. 54 ◽  
Author(s):  
Katerina Loizou ◽  
Voon-Loong Wong ◽  
Buddhika Hewakandamby
Keyword(s):  
Transition Region ◽  
Flow Rate ◽  
Capillary Number ◽  
Rate Ratio ◽  
Continuous Phase ◽  
Flow Rate Ratio ◽  
Phase Flow ◽  
Regime Transition ◽  
Droplet Volume ◽  
Rate Ratios

The focus of this work is to examine the effect of flow rate ratio (quotient of the dispersed phase flow rate over the continuous phase flow rate) on a regime transition from squeezing to dripping at constant capillary numbers. The effect of the flow rate ratio on the volume of droplets generated in a microfluidic T-junction is discussed, and a new scaling law to estimate their volume is proposed. Existing work on a regime transition reported by several researchers focuses on the effect of the capillary number on regime transition, and the results that are presented in this paper advance the current understanding by indicating that the flow rate ratio is another parameter that dictates regime transition. In this paper, the transition between squeezing and dripping regimes is reported at constant capillary numbers, with a transition region identified between squeezing and dripping regimes. Dripping is observed at lower flow rate ratios and squeezing at higher flow rate ratios, with a transition region between the two regimes at flow rate ratios between 1 and 2. This is presented in a flow regime map that is constructed based on the observed mechanism. A scaling model is proposed to characterise droplet volume in terms of flow rate ratio and capillary number. The effect of flow rate ratio on the non-dimensional droplet volume is presented, and lastly, the droplet volume is expressed in terms of a range of parameters, such as the viscosity ratio between the dispersed and the continuous phase, capillary number, and the geometrical characteristics of the channels.

Insights into bio-synthesis of nanoparticles by Shewanella genus

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Vishnu D. Rajput ◽  
Tatiana Minkina ◽  
Richard Kimber ◽  
Vipin Kumar Singh ◽  
Sudhir Shende ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Focal Point ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Model Organism ◽  
Metal Species ◽  
Synthesis Methods ◽  
Influence Of Process Parameters ◽  
Synthesis Of Nanoparticles ◽  
Current State ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Potential Applications

The exploitation of microorganisms for the fabrication of nanoparticles (NPs) has garnered considerable research interest globally. The microbiological transformation of metals and metal salts into respective NPs can be achieved under environmentally benign conditions, offering a more sustainable alternative to chemical synthesis methods. Species of the metal-reducing bacterial genus Shewanella are able to couple the oxidation of various electron donors including lactate, pyruvate and hydrogen, to the reduction of a wide range of metal species, resulting in biomineralization of a multitude of metal NPs. Single metal-based NPs as well as composite materials with properties equivalent or even superior to physically and chemically produced NPs have been synthesized by a number of Shewanella species. A mechanistic understanding of electron transfer mediated bioreduction of metals into respective NPs by Shewanella is crucial in maximizing NP yields and directing the synthesis to produce fine-tuned NPs with tailored properties. In addition, thorough investigations into the influence of process parameters controlling the biosynthesis is another focal point for optimizing the process of NP generation. Synthesis of metal-based NPs using Shewanella species offers a low-cost, eco-friendly alternative to current physiochemical methods. This article aims to shed light on the contribution of Shewanella as a model organism in the biosynthesis of a variety of NPs, and critically reviews the current state of knowledge on factors controlling their synthesis, characterization, potential applications in different sectors and future prospects.

scholarly journals Facile Synthesis and Characterization of Palm CNF-ZnO Nanocomposites with Antibacterial and Reinforcing Properties

2021 ◽  
Vol 22 (11) ◽  
pp. 5781
Author(s):  
Janarthanan Supramaniam ◽  
Darren Yi Sern Low ◽  
See Kiat Wong ◽  
Loh Teng Hern Tan ◽  
Bey Fen Leo ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Plant Biomass ◽  
Cellulose Nanofibers ◽  
High Strength ◽  
Salmonella Typhi ◽  
Particle Sizes ◽  
Mechanical Reinforcement ◽  
Uniform Size ◽  
Preparation Methods ◽  
Potential Applications

Cellulose nanofibers (CNF) isolated from plant biomass have attracted considerable interests in polymer engineering. The limitations associated with CNF-based nanocomposites are often linked to the time-consuming preparation methods and lack of desired surface functionalities. Herein, we demonstrate the feasibility of preparing a multifunctional CNF-zinc oxide (CNF-ZnO) nanocomposite with dual antibacterial and reinforcing properties via a facile and efficient ultrasound route. We characterized and examined the antibacterial and mechanical reinforcement performances of our ultrasonically induced nanocomposite. Based on our electron microscopy analyses, the ZnO deposited onto the nanofibrous network had a flake-like morphology with particle sizes ranging between 21 to 34 nm. pH levels between 8–10 led to the formation of ultrafine ZnO particles with a uniform size distribution. The resultant CNF-ZnO composite showed improved thermal stability compared to pure CNF. The composite showed potent inhibitory activities against Gram-positive (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)) and Gram-negative Salmonella typhi (S. typhi) bacteria. A CNF-ZnO-reinforced natural rubber (NR/CNF-ZnO) composite film, which was produced via latex mixing and casting methods, exhibited up to 42% improvement in tensile strength compared with the neat NR. The findings of this study suggest that ultrasonically-synthesized palm CNF-ZnO nanocomposites could find potential applications in the biomedical field and in the development of high strength rubber composites.

scholarly journals Fabrication, Characterization and In Vitro Cytotoxicity of Mesoporous β-Tricalcium Phosphate Using the Spray Drying Method

Crystals ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (3) ◽  
pp. 252
Author(s):  
Henni Setia Ningsih ◽  
Leonhard Tannesia ◽  
Hsiang-Ho Chen ◽  
Shao-Ju Shih
Keyword(s):  
Spray Drying ◽  
Tricalcium Phosphate ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
In Vitro Cytotoxicity ◽  
Formation Mechanisms ◽  
Synthesis Methods ◽  
Average Pore ◽  
Calcination Temperatures ◽  
Future Demands

Mesoporous beta tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) has recently attracted significant interest as an artificial bone tissue in orthopedics. However, a scalable process is required to meet future demands. Spray drying is one of the potential synthesis methods owing to its low cost and scalable production. In this study, various mesoporous β-TCP powders were calcined in the range of 800 to 1100 °C, with particle sizes ranging from ~0.3 to ~1.8 μm, specific surface areas from ~16 to ~64 m2/g, and average pore sizes of 3 nm. Except for the 800 °C calcined powder, the other β-TCP powders (calcination temperatures of 900, 1000, and 1100 °C) exhibited no cytotoxicity. These results indicate that spray-dried mesoporous β-TCP powders were obtained. Finally, the corresponding formation mechanisms are discussed.

scholarly journals Visualization of Surface Acoustic Waves in Thin Liquid Films

2016 ◽  
Vol 6 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
R. W. Rambach ◽  
J. Taiber ◽  
C. M. L. Scheck ◽  
C. Meyer ◽  
J. Reboud ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Liquid Film ◽  
Acoustic Waves ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Thin Liquid Film ◽  
Surface Acoustic Waves ◽  
Liquid Films ◽  
Theoretical Description ◽  
Propagation Path ◽  
Microfluidic Channels ◽  
Potential Applications

Abstract We demonstrate that the propagation path of a surface acoustic wave (SAW), excited with an interdigitated transducer (IDT), can be visualized using a thin liquid film dispensed onto a lithium niobate (LiNbO3) substrate. The practical advantages of this visualization method are its rapid and simple implementation, with many potential applications including in characterising acoustic pumping within microfluidic channels. It also enables low-cost characterisation of IDT designs thereby allowing the determination of anisotropy and orientation of the piezoelectric substrate without the requirement for sophisticated and expensive equipment. Here, we show that the optical visibility of the sound path critically depends on the physical properties of the liquid film and identify heptane and methanol as most contrast rich solvents for visualization of SAW. We also provide a detailed theoretical description of this effect.

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