Acoustic energy distribution in microfluidics chip via a secondary channel

- Acoustic energy distribution in a microfluidic chip can be controlled via frequency.
- The output response is modelled and simplified to an RLC circuit.
- A quality factor of >6 ensures that the damping is insignificant.
- A shared channel design limits the maximum ratio between different output.

Acoustic energy is commonly utilized in microfluidic technology enabling the use of minute volume of fluid for diagnosis and analysis in biology research. However, the milli-micrometer scaled acoustic sensors and actuators are low in surface power density. We simulate the output response in a secondary microfluidic channel with multiple output ports sealed by a thin flexible membrane to demonstrate the use of frequency control for distribution of acoustic vibration. As a verification, a two output-location sample is fabricated, tested, and compared to our model simulation. The present methodology employs the application of larger acoustic actuator without compromising the volume of sample fluid required. The differential vibration response between two components of >1 order is shown experimentally. The design of secondary channel is analyzed as an RLC circuit and a quality factor of >6 is required to minimize damping.