A better way to handle liquids
Researchers at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University have unveiled a new fluidic processor called "connected polyhedral frames" (CPFs), a significant step forward in liquid handling technology. The research, led by Professor Liqiu Wang, was recently published in Nature Chemical Engineering, with Dr Yiyuan Zhang as the first author. CPFs enable precise, programmable, and reversible control over liquid capture and release.
CPFs can be made of different materials, such as resin or stainless steel, and are created using a 3D printer. The technology is compatible with a wide range of liquids, including aqueous solutions, biofluids, and organic solvents, making it applicable across various industries.
CPFs offer a solution to issues such as cross-contamination and plastic waste associated with traditional methods of fluid manipulation.
In drug delivery, CPFs can allow for controlled multidrug release and improved sampling efficiency for virus detection. For microbial applications, the technology can enhance bacterial encapsulation and simplify reaction processes. Additionally, CPFs show promise in environmental applications, with prototypes developed for more efficient humidifiers and carbon capture systems.
The development of CPFs opens new possibilities in fields such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and environmental management, where the ability to precisely process liquids is vital.