This invention introduces a τ-shaped microchannel for efficient blood plasma separation. Unlike traditional centrifuging, this microfluidic chip integrated with a bio- sensor allows quick analysis with minimal samples. The design uses larger dimensions to avoid clogging and combines bifurcation, centrifugal action, constriction, and expansion to separate blood cells from plasma. The device has an inlet for blood and two outlets for plasma and blood. It features a 90° bend and multiple bends in the plasma channel to improve separation efficiency. Fabrication involves a simple photolithography process, resulting in a compact, cost-effective device with high separation efficiency, even with undiluted blood.
Figure (1) Blood plasma separation microdevice; (2) Comparison of simulation results with the experimental data
Human blood plasma is essential for disease diagnostics, but conventional centrifuging techniques for plasma separation are inefficient and cumbersome. There is a need for a more efficient, portable, and rapid method to separate blood plasma that minimizes sample and reagent use, and allows for real-time monitoring at the patient's location.
- Larger Microchannel Dimensions: Reduces clogging issues and allows for easier manufacturability.
- Integration of Bifurcation, Centrifugal Action, Constriction, and Expansion: Ensures efficient separation of blood cells from plasma.
- 90° Circular Bend in Inlet Channel: Creates a constriction zone that aids in the separation process.
- Multiple Bend Structure in Plasma Channel: Enhances resistance and reduces the overall device area to approximately 3 cm².
- One Inlet and Two Outlet Channels: Simplifies the setup and allows for efficient blood and plasma flow.
- SU8 Photolithography Fabrication Process: Enables mass production of the device in a semi-clean room environment.
The microdevice comprises a τ-shaped microchannel structure with one inlet and two outlet channels—one for blood and one for plasma. The plasma outlet incorporates multiple bends to increase flow resistance and enhance separation. The inlet channel features a 90° circular bend, which induces a constriction zone that aids in cell- plasma separation. The device has a compact footprint (~3 cm²) and is fabricated using SU- 8 photolithography on a PDMS base. Experimental validations have shown the device is clog-free, hemolysis-free, and requires minimal sample volume. Comparative studies with simulation results have confirmed strong correlation, indicating reliability and predictability of device performance.
A functional prototype of the microdevice has been successfully developed and evaluated. The device has demonstrated 100% plasma separation efficiency from whole human blood in lab-scale studies. The separation mechanism leverages a novel microchannel design combining bifurcation, centrifugal action, constriction, and expansion—without requiring external power sources or dilution. The microdevice has been fabricated using standard SU-8 photolithography techniques and is compatible with cleanroom or semi-cleanroom production environments. It is currently at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 5–6, having been validated in a relevant environment with strong performance consistency.
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This microdevice enhances diagnostic accuracy by delivering high-purity plasma without the need for complex sample preparation or dilution. Its simple and robust design enables low-cost, point-of-care testing—especially in resource-limited settings. The technology supports scalable manufacturing and is well-suited for integration with biosensors, making rapid, real-time diagnostics more accessible and affordable.
- Point-of-Care Diagnostics: Enables rapid plasma separation at patient sites for real-time medical testing.
- Lab-on-a-Chip Systems: Integrates seamlessly into microfluidic platforms for compact diagnostic tools.
- Clinical and Biomedical Research: Useful for isolating plasma in small-volume, high-throughput experimental setups.
- Resource-Limited Healthcare Settings: Offers a cost-effective alternative to centrifugation for basic blood analysis.
Geography of IP
Type of IP
2344/MUM/2013
373428