Magnetophoretic and Dielectrophoretic Actuations Coupled with Diamagnetic Trapping in Air and Liquids

We have previously developed microsystems for contactless handling of diamagnetic bodies in air and liquids.(1,2) Magnetic levitation of droplets, particles and cells is achieved by specific configurations of microscale permanent magnet devices. In this work, two new actuation technologies are presented, which could both guide particles and solve some of the current limitations of dielectrophoresis (DEP). Dielectrophoretic and magnetophoretic actuations are combined with diamagnetic levitation to move and position micro-particles along linear magnetostatic traps. Interestingly, magnetic levitation combined with magnetophoresis appears relevant for the actuation of particles in air. In low conductive solvents, travelling wave dielectrophoresis coupled to diamagnetic levitation is also enhanced.