Microfluidic droplets generation using two LSPone Programmable Syringe Pumps

In T-junction setups, the dispersed phase is segmented by the perpendicular flow of the continuous phase, forming droplets as it enters the main channel.

In flow-focusing, the continuous phase (like oil) constricts the dispersed phase (like water) at a narrow junction, creating droplets as the dispersed phase breaks up due to shear forces and surface tension. Syringe pumps, and even more the LSPone, are critical in this process.

The LSPone programmable syringe pump precisely controls the flow rates of these streams, allowing the formation of uniform droplets when the aqueous phase pinches off into the oil phase due to the controlled shear forces at the junction. This method is crucial for achieving consistent droplet sizes and frequencies, which are essential for the reproducibility and reliability of experimental outcomes in applications such as drug delivery systems and diagnostic assays.

To achieve precise droplet generation using the LSPone Programmable Syringe Pump, a specific setup is required. This includes the LSPone pump itself, known for its high accuracy and repeatability, which is crucial for microfluidic experiments. The setup also involves a microfluidic chip with a flow-focusing geometry to facilitate the droplet formation process.

We are using a droplet generation chip from microfluidic ChipShop (product number: 13-1007-0440-02), with a flow-focusing junction. The top left part is connected to the oil, and the water passes through the serpentine in the middle. Thus water droplets are created in the oil carrier.

Connecting these components requires precise tubing and connectors to ensure a leak-free pathway for the fluids. A control software provided with the LSPone allows for fine-tuning of flow rates and monitoring of the process, making it an ideal system for both research and industrial applications.

Achieving the desired droplet characteristics in microfluidic applications requires precise manipulation of several variables, primarily flow rates and droplet sizes. With the LSPone Laboratory Programmable Syringe Pump, you can finely automate and adjust the flow rates of the fluid streams—critical for controlling the size and frequency of droplets. By varying these parameters, users can tailor droplet formation to suit specific needs, whether for controlled drug delivery systems or high-throughput biochemical assays. This optimization process is supported by the LSPone’s advanced software, which provides real-time feedback and precise control, ensuring consistent results across experiments.

Utilizing the LSPone Laboratory Programmable Syringe Pump in your microfluidic applications can significantly enhance your project’s output and efficiency. This equipment is designed to automate and to offer unmatched precision in droplet generation, crucial for advancing research and development in fields such as pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, and environmental testing. With its user-friendly software and robust design, the LSPone ensures that you can achieve reliable, repeatable results with minimal downtime. This translates into faster development cycles and more effective product testing, giving your work a competitive edge in the market.