Sensor/Actuator Elements Based on SAW Principle for Flexible Disposable Laboratories-on-a-Chip for Biomedical Analysis

The design and technology of sensor/actuator elements (SAE) based on SAW principle, integrated into hybrid analytical microdevices (laboratories-on-a-chip) have been considered. The sample element was implemented on the lithium niobate crystal 128 ° YX LiNbO3 by using metal deposition and standard lithography approaches. The working frequency range was 10 - 17 MHz. The SAE was integrated with microfluidic system for transport of biological fluids. The topology and frequency/amplitude regimes of the system were optimized in order to increase the precision of manipulation of liquid analytes. The device is tested using model system, containing baking east cells, dyes and blood cells. The selectivity of the model system enabled blood cells to be separated. On this basis the potential performance of the system when used in preparative applications, such as blood separation for infusion, is evaluated as 0.5 ml.min-1. The devise could be used in mobile express biomedical applications.