Microfluidic sorting with high-speed single-layer membrane valves

Sorting is one of the most important applications of microfluidic devices; however, current sorters place specific requirements on the density, size, and electrical properties of the objects to be sorted, limiting applicability. We present widely applicable microfluidic sorting. We use high-speed single-layer membrane valves to control flows in a bifurcating channel junction, to direct the paths of objects. This allows sorting at hundreds of hertz. Moreover, since the sorting action is mechanical, it is very widely applicable-to drops, particles, and even living cells. (C) 2010 American Institute of Physics. [doi:10.1063/1.3431281]