Selective sample recovery of DEP-separated cells and particles by phaseguide-controlled laminar flow

The selective recovery of particles is demonstrated after separation with dielectrophoretic (DEP) forces. Particles are separated based on their size using the so-called cage-speed separation protocol. A two-lane laminar flow enables the selective recovery of the particles. In order to prevent hydrostatic pressure flow, liquid reservoirs are absent. The sample liquid is thus replaced with air during recovery. Phaseguides are introduced in the system to control the liquid–air interface, so that the two-lane laminar flow profile is preserved.