How can you use microfluidics to improve nanoparticle synthesis uniformity?

1 What is nanoparticle synthesis uniformity?

Nanoparticle synthesis uniformity refers to the degree of consistency and reproducibility of the nanoparticle characteristics, such as size, shape, composition, and surface chemistry. Uniform nanoparticles are desirable for many applications, as they can enhance the performance, stability, and functionality of the nanomaterials. For instance, uniform nanoparticles can improve the optical, electrical, and catalytic properties of nanodevices, as well as the biodistribution, targeting, and delivery of nanomedicines. However, achieving nanoparticle synthesis uniformity is not easy, as it depends on many factors, such as the precursor concentration, temperature, pH, reaction time, and stirring rate.

2 How can microfluidics help?

Microfluidics is a technology that can create and manipulate small volumes of fluids (from nanoliters to microliters) in microscale channels and chambers, offering several benefits for nanoparticle synthesis. For example, microfluidic devices can achieve rapid and homogenous mixing of the reactants, enabling precise and dynamic control over the reaction parameters. Additionally, they can generate multiple streams of fluids with different compositions and conditions, increasing production capacity and diversity of nanoparticles. Furthermore, microfluidic devices can reduce the consumption of reactants and solvents, as well as be fabricated with inexpensive and disposable materials. All of these features make microfluidics a cost-effective and sustainable solution for nanoparticle synthesis.

3 What are some examples of microfluidic devices and methods?

There are many types of microfluidic devices and methods that can be used for nanoparticle synthesis, depending on the desired characteristics and applications. For instance, droplet-based microfluidics involves generating and manipulating discrete droplets of fluids within another immiscible fluid in microfluidic channels. This method can produce uniform and monodisperse nanoparticles, as well as complex and multifunctional nanoparticles such as core-shell, Janus, and hybrid nanoparticles. Flow-focusing microfluidics involves focusing a stream of fluid by two or more streams of another fluid in a microfluidic channel. This method can produce nanoparticles with narrow size distribution and tunable shape. Lastly, segmented flow microfluidics creates and manipulates alternating segments of two or more fluids in a microfluidic channel. This method can generate nanoparticles with high yield and uniformity, as well as the possibility of post-synthesis modification.

4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?