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We study theoretically the capturing of paramagnetic beads by a magnetic field gradient in a microfluidic channel treating the beads as a continuum. Bead motion is affected by both fluidic and magnetic forces. The transfer of momentum from beads to the fluid creates an effective bead-bead interaction that greatly aids capturing. We demonstrate that for a given inlet flow speed a critical density of beads exists above which complete capturing takes place.
Mikkelsen et al. (2005) studied this question.