Digital Microfluidics

Digital microfluidics involves the manipulation of working liquid droplets on a planar surface, liquid marbles, or core-shell beads, typically with volumes ranging from nanoliters to microliters. These platforms are primarily controlled using electric or magnetic fields.

Our research in digital microfluidics focuses on advancing engineering tools and techniques to enhance the use of liquid marbles and core-shell beads over conventional liquid droplets. We have successfully demonstrated the application of liquid marbles and core-shell beads as microreactors for DNA amplification, achieving a significant reduction in plastic waste—over 85%—compared to traditional methods.

Additionally, we have developed a fully automated liquid marble-based stem cell culture system compatible with 96-well plates, paving the way for more sustainable and efficient biological processes.