Particle focusing within a microfluidic device using surface acoustic waves

An apparatus for particle focusing of particles within a fluid sample, the apparatus comprising:

• a substrate;
• a first surface acoustic wave generator;
• a second surface acoustic wave generator,
• the first and second surface acoustic wave generators being configured to generate a standing surface acoustic wave (SSAW) within a SSAW region of the substrate;
• and
• a channel, configured to receive a fluid sample including particles, the channel having a particle focusing portion proximate the SSAW region of the substrate,
• the apparatus being operable to provide focused particles within the fluid sample when the fluid sample is introduced into the channel and the SSAW is generated.

A method of focusing particles within a fluid sample including the particles, the method comprising:

• locating the fluid sample proximate a substrate;
• and
• generating a standing surface acoustic wave (SSAW) within the substrate,
• the SSAW inducing pressure forces within the fluid so as to focus the particles within the fluid sample.