Device and method for laser analysis and separation (LAS) of particles
Inventors
Hart, Sean J. • Terray, Alexander V. • Hebert, Colin G.
Assignees
Publication Number
US-9594071-B2
Publication Date
2017-03-14
Expiration Date
2027-12-21
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Abstract
A device and method for particle separation. The device includes at least one collimated light source operable to generate at least one collimated light source beam. The device further includes a first channel in a first plane and a focused particle stream nozzle operably connected to the first channel. The device further includes a second channel in a second plane orthogonal to the first plane. The second channel communicates with the first channel. The second channel comprises a second channel cross-section. The second channel is oriented to receive the collimated light source beam. The device further includes a third channel in a third plane orthogonal to the second plane. The third channel communicates with the second channel. The collimated light source beam is oriented to enter a cross-section of the first channel, then to pass through the second channel, and then to enter a cross-section of the third channel.
Core Innovation
The invention relates to a device and method for particle separation in fluids using optical pressure from a laser. The device includes orthogonal channels arranged to direct a collimated light source beam through the channels while fluid containing particles flows opposite to the beam's propagation. Particles in the fluid are subjected to optical force from the laser that can overcome fluid drag, allowing manipulation including retention and separation of particles based on their physical properties such as size, shape, and refractive index.
The device integrates hydrodynamic focusing to control the position and cross-section of the particle-containing fluid stream, enabling precise interaction with the laser beam. This interaction results in differential retention and velocity changes of particles dependent on intrinsic properties, facilitating identification and separation without reliance on antibodies or fluorescent markers. The invention combines microfluidic channel designs, laser configurations, and sample handling techniques to achieve analysis and sorting of particle populations based on optical forces.
Claims Coverage
The claims include two independent claims focusing on the method of particle separation using a collimated light source and a configured channel system, with further dependent claims expanding on details concerning flow control, particle properties, and collection methods.
Particle separation using collimated light in orthogonal channels
Providing a body with three orthogonally arranged channels, transmitting a collimated light beam through the second channel, introducing a sample flow containing particles into the first channel flowing opposite to the beam direction, and sheath flows to focus and position the sample flow within the combined flow for effective particle interaction with the light.
Control of flow rates for hydrodynamic focusing
Focusing the sample flow cross-section size within the combined flow by providing sheath flow rates greater than the sample flow rate, enabling precise control of particle stream positioning.
Particle identification and separation based on intrinsic and induced properties
Classifying particles by intrinsic properties such as size, shape, refractive index, morphology, and fluorescence, as well as induced properties including deformation and fluorescence labels, and separating particles accordingly.
Interrogation of particles via measuring velocity and properties
Determining intrinsic and induced particle properties and measuring particle velocity, with steps including offsetting the beam axis from the sample flow axis and calculating particle trajectories deviating toward the beam axis.
Retention and directed collection of separated particles
Retaining particles of a specific type against a channel wall or directing them into collection channels connected to the second and third channels, including active separation by varying collection channel flow rates.
Sample and outlet handling using well plates and automated tips
Utilizing sample and outlet well plates with multiple wells and waste moats; employing sample inlet and outlet tips for transferring samples under fluid pressure while maintaining submersion during transfers to prevent contamination or loss.
Use of serpentine channels to prevent particle sedimentation
Incorporating serpentine channels aligned with gravity to extend particle settling time, maintaining particle suspension and velocity in the flow.
The claims comprehensively cover the method of using a collimated laser beam in conjunction with an orthogonal microchannel system to effect particle separation by controlling flow dynamics, identifying particle properties, and directing collection. Additional claims provide detailed features concerning flow rate adjustments, sample handling, and measurement methods supporting the separation process.
Stated Advantages
Offers sensitive, selective, automated, and cost/size effective cell sorting without reliance on antibodies or fluorescent labels.
Enables differentiation and separation of particles based on inherent physical properties like size, shape, refractive index, and morphology.
Allows for analysis of biochemical and biological properties dynamically, including changes due to disease states in biological cells.
Provides the capability to measure and identify particles in real time by analyzing their velocity and position within the optical force field.
Facilitates physical separation of biological species including bacteria and viruses based on chemical composition without chemical markers.
Documented Applications
Analysis and separation of biological cells, bacteria, and viruses for disease detection, sorting, and characterization.
Separation of colloidal samples including organic particulates and inorganic particles such as glass and metal particles.
Bio-warfare detection and biomedical analysis applications requiring sensitive, label-free particle separation.
Hydrodynamic focused particle streams enabling high precision sample interrogation for research and clinical diagnostics.
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