Droplet Generator Pack
Delivers unparalleled accuracy in fluid regulation
Produce highly monodisperse droplets (CV<3%)
Cell encapsulation, emulsions, droplet sorting, particle synthesis, etc.
What is a droplet generator for microfluidics?
Droplet microfluidics is an advanced technique that enables the precise manipulation of liquid droplets within microchannels, providing a highly controlled environment for chemical and biological processes. By leveraging a setup like a droplet generator pack, and enabling liquid handling for precise droplet formation, researchers can produce uniform and stable droplets by controlling the flow of immiscible phases, such as oil and water.
Droplet generation in a microfluidic device using mineral oil with 2% SPAN 80. The inner water phase forms droplets with a core diameter of ~70 µm. Flow rates: water: 0.1 µL/min, oil: 0.2 µL/min. Scale bar: 100 µm.
Moreover, this ability to generate monodisperse droplets with precision has transformed numerous research fields, allowing for enhanced reaction control, increased efficiency, and significant reductions in reagent consumption. The integration of a droplet generator into experimental workflows ensures high-throughput and reproducible droplet formation, making it a critical tool for applications ranging from drug discovery to materials science.
Setup
- Flow sensor (Galileo, MIC)
- Pressure controller
- Your own Imaging system
- Reservoirs
- Tubings and fittings
- Microfluidic chip
- User guide
- Software
References
Image credit: Animation of flow focusing microfluidic device droplet formation. https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Flow_Focusing_Ver_2.gif
Perfusion pump technical specifications
Pressure control | |
| Pressure range | -400 to 600 mbar |
| Pressure stability | 0.2 mbar |
| Air flow rate | 0.1 L/min at atmospheric pressure Possibility to work with higher air flow rates by reducing the pressure range |
Flow control | |
| Microfluidic flow sensor | Monitoring and feedback loop flow control available |
| Flow rates | From 0.1 µL/min to 5 mL/min |
Flow Sensor technical specifications
Flow rate ranges: For example, flow rate ranges with <5% accuracy:
- 0.5 – 60 µL/min
- 2 – 150 µL/min
- 40 – 1200 µL/min
- 0.5 – 10 mL/min
Note that the range can be customized depending on working fluid properties (viscosity, etc.)
Calibrated liquids: aqueous media (others are possible upon request)
Wetted materials: PEEK, steel, fluorosilicone, perfluoropolyether resin
Internal volume: approx. 40 µL (variable depending on the used configuration range)
Operation pressure: up to 3 bar gauge pressure
Maximum pressure rating: up to 6 bar gauge pressure
Software operability: standalone GUI for data visualization and logging; optional Python API
Please note that this is a beta version of this technology, so exact specifications are subject to change.
Applications of droplet generator pack
The use of droplet generators extends far beyond simple droplet formation. In biomedical research, droplet generator systems allow for encapsulation of single cells, enabling precise genetic and proteomic analysis. This technology plays a crucial role in single-cell sequencing and personalized medicine, where controlled droplet formation ensures consistency across experiments.
With the ability to rapidly produce thousands of droplets per second, researchers can analyze vast sample sets with unparalleled efficiency, accelerating the development of new drugs and therapeutic compounds.
Beyond biological research, droplet generator technology is widely used in nanoparticle and microparticle synthesis, ensuring uniform size and composition. In material science, the controlled production of emulsions, minocapsules, and structured materials has opened new possibilities for drug delivery systems, chemical reactions, and advanced coatings. The ability to fine-tune droplet size and stability makes droplet generators invaluable in fields such as food science, environmental testing, and industrial formulation, where precision is essential.
The increasing adoption of droplet generators across various disciplines highlights their ability to improve experimental reproducibility, minimize waste, and enhance analytical accuracy. As microfluidic technology continues to evolve, next-generation droplet generators will play an even greater role in automated laboratory workflows, scalable drug development, and industrial applications.
By integrating a high-precision droplet generator, researchers and industry professionals can achieve a new level of control, efficiency, and innovation in their work.
Droplet generation in a microfluidic device using Hexadecane with 2% SPAN 80. Flow rates: water: 30 nL/min, oil: 30 nL/min. Scale bar: 100 µm.
Can I use other types of pumps to drive the fluid?
Yes, droplet generation is possible with a pressure source, syringe pumps and peristaltic pumps. Make sure that the pump delivers the right flow rate as this affects the droplet generation and its size.
How do I ensure my pump provides stable/right flow rates?
Use a pressure driven source for better stability and accuracy of flow. In case of syringe pumps or peristaltic pumps, use a flow sensor (like Galileo) in-line, to be sure the pump delivers the right flow rate.
I do not have droplets or they are inconsistent. What do I do?
Make sure the flow rates are right, the channel is flushed/cleaned before starting and you use the right surfactant concentration.
Funding and Support
This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon research and innovation program under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie grant agreement no. 101119956 (DarChemDN).
