Measuring the Effectiveness of Three Dimensional Deterministic Lateral Displacement in Low Viscosity Liquids

With more research, three dimensional deterministic lateral displacement (3D DLD) has the potential to greatly improve the efficacy and flexibility of microfluidic devices for separation within various fields of science, notably microbiology. As a particle passes through a set array of obstacles submerged in liquid, its type of motion varies according to its specific properties. Utilizing the differing movements, 3D DLD can be used to separate various particles according to size, deformability, and other properties. The project focuses on testing the competence of 3D DLD systems in a low viscosity liquid. Similar to the data collecting and data processing procedure used in a previous 3D DLD experiment utilizing corn oil, this was accomplished by analyzing particle motion in a different fluid, namely, water. Analyzing disparities between the data sets revealed the effects on particle motion through a fluid with a high Reynolds number, as well as how the separation mechanics of the passing fluid were altered according to 3D DLD. Analysis of the experimental data revealed important notes regarding particle sorting in lower viscosity fluids, many of which directly correlate with similar corn oil results. Studies in two planes of motion revealed distinct points for particle separation regardless of the type of motion, and further comparisons of forcing, critical, and migration angles demonstrated sophisticated relationships that are especially useful in particle separation. A prominent issue with the trials included the formation of rust, requiring the addition of vinegar