NEMID:
High accuracy particle or cell identification
Increased accuracy of particle or cell identification using microfluidic impedance measurement techniques.
The Challenge
Microfluidic impedance cells are miniaturised low-cost labs on a chip. They can be used to obtain a full blood cell population count from a patient.
But a long-standing issue for such devices is low accuracy when discriminating cells of different size. This is caused by unwanted conflation of cell position and size information.
The Solution
We have developed a design that produces a highly homogenous electric field in the particle sensing region.
The technique demonstrates higher accuracy than traditional designs in particle/cell counting and sizing.
By eliminating the requirement for focusing and signal post-processing techniques, the device complexity, size and cost can be minimised.
The concept has been validated through full 3D particle-flow finite element simulations. They show an accuracy 10.8 times greater than the leading traditional design in counting and sizing particles and cells.
We believe this device could be scaled to suit the needs of various industries who wish to monitor liquids for particulate or cell counting.
The Opportunity
Application Description
A high accuracy microfluidic impedance cell cytometer that can identify and quantify particle or cell populations within a liquid sample.
The technique could support:
- Blood cell analysis
- Particulate counting in a liquid sample
- Online condition monitoring of oil systems
- Production line contamination monitoring
Contact
Enquiries for technical and product development or licensing opportunities are encouraged.
- Dr Graeme Young, Business Development Manger
- graeme.young@newcastle.ac.uk
- +447771930316