Modular Thin-Layer Microfluidics with Microwave Sensing:
A Sensitive Platform for Biomedical and Organ-on-Chip Applications
Abstract
A novel, sensitive, low-cost, and reproducible sensing platform is presented using integrated microwave, microfluidics, and thin membrane interfacing technologies. In this work we explain how this technology could be used for measurement of flow rate within a microchannel in a real-time, noncontact, and nonintrusive manner. The flow in a microchannel deforms a thin circular membrane. Consequently, the permittivity and conductivity over the sensitive zone of the microwave resonator device (which is located under the membrane) will be altered. With proper calibration, such permittivity sensing method enables high-resolution detection of flow rate in microfluidic channels using non-contact microwave as a standalone system. The proposed flow sensor is reproducible with the error of 0.1 % for measurement of flow rates as low as 1µl/min. Since, the sensing element is not directly in contact with the liquid, it is highly compatible with several bio-applications. The proposed technology is an ideal candidate to be integrated onto microfluidic-based lab-on-chips, organ-on-chip, and bioreactors platforms.
Short Biography
Dr. Hamid Sadabadi is an entrepreneur and senior microfluidics scientist. His main research interests are applied microfluidics, organ-on-chip, sensors, and biosensors. Dr. Sadabadi received his PhD degrees in Mechanical Engineering from Concordia University (Montreal, Canada) in 2013. He has extensive experience in design and analysis of integrated microfluidic and mechanical systems with applications in both life science and energy sector. He has the recipient of numerous prestigious industrial and academic awards and scholarships. Dr. Sadabadi holds 12 US Patents, and is co-founder of Wireless Fluidics, Inc., and affiliated with University of Calgary and University of British Columbia.