Abstract
Both lubricant-infused surfaces and surface acoustic waves have been studied for their applicability to the field of microfluidics. However, combining the use of the two technologies has not been thoroughly explored. Specifically, this research aims to find an empirical relationship between the size of a droplet (characterized by its diameter) and the frequency required to induce motion. By placing droplets of various sizes on a lubricant-infused surface and testing the effects of surface acoustic waves of different frequencies, it has been determined that the frequency required to initiate movement of the droplet increases as the size of the droplet decreases. Experimental results indicate a logarithmic decaying relationship between frequency and droplet diameter, but more research needs to be done on droplets of diameters smaller than one millimeter. Even still, this research shows promise, as further developing an understanding of this relationship could allow greater control in microfluidic applications.
Document Type
Final Report
Class Name
Mechanical Engineering and Material Sciences Independent Study
Date of Submission
5-1-2019
Recommended Citation
Anderson, Mitry; Weisensee, Patricia; and Meacham, Mark, "Acoustic Droplet Manipulation on Lubricant-Infused Surfaces" (2019). Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science Independent Study. 87.
https://openscholarship.wustl.edu/mems500/87