Numerical investigation of planar microcoils integrated in microfluidic devices for biological applications

Abstract

The objective of this work is to create a finite element model of different magnetic actuator topologies using COMSOL Multiphysics software. The aim is to simulate and improve the magnetic field generated by different planar microcoil topologies while minimising energy dissipation. The magnetic field generated by square and circular spiral planar microcoils was compared with that produced by serpentine meander planar microcoils. It has been found that the trapping efficiency in a magnetic manipulation microfluidic system for biological applications is closely linked to the geometry and electrical parameters of the planar microcoils. In addition, the location of these microcoils within the microfluidic channel intended for the circulation of the paramagnetic microbeads also play a crucial role. The obtained results show that bu reducing the inter-turn spacing using a thinner conductor cross-section and injected a higher electrical intensity in the actuator, both the magnetic field strength and its gradient can be increased, and therefore cause a higher magnetic actuation force.