Electrohydrodynamic aspects of two-fluid microfluidic systems: Theory and simulation

The goal of this thesis has been to explore fundamental theoretical principles behind micro Total Analysis Systems (µTAS), also known as lab-on-chip systems, as well as to make use of computer simulations as an evaluation technique in the process of developing and optimizing µTAS devises. This involves fundamental physics and computer science as well as interpreting experimental input provided by others.

Most of the work has been documented in 4 per reviewed papers, 7 conference proceedings, one chapter in a text book, and one patent. The results comprise simulations of the two-liquid chimney device and the cascade EO-pump, discovery of how to pump non-polar liquids by electroosmosis, theory of clogging pressures of large bubbles in microchannel contractions, and a theoretical analysis of the stability conditions for the interface between two different dielectric liquids under influence of external electric fields.

A significant effort has been devoted to the creation of a new group at MIC, the Microfluidcs Theory and Simulation Group (MIFTS). During the first year of this PhD-study, simulation of lab-on-a-chip systems was the main topic. Later, as students were attracted to the group the activities expanded to include the theoretical studies.

At present MIFTS consists of two postdocs, four PhD students and a number of undergraduate students, under the leadership of prof. Henrik Bruus.