Dielectrophoresis: Physical Principles, Applications, and Future Perspectives

Abstract

Dielectrophoresis (DEP) provides a versatile approach for the label-free and non-invasive manipulation of biological particles through their polarization in spatially non-uniform electric fields. DEP-based techniques are widely used for cell separation, controlled trapping and positioning of biological particles. This work investigates a sequential signal-switching strategy for controlled dielectrophoretic transport of biological spheroids from the periphery toward a defined central region. A numerical model was developed to evaluate the electric field distribution, dielectrophoretic forces, and resulting spheroid motion under different electrode activation sequences. The proposed mechanism is based on sequential switching of the electrical signals from the central region toward the periphery. Although the activation sequence propagates outward, the resulting spatial redistribution of the non-uniform electric field generates dielectrophoretic forces that drive the spheroids in the opposite direction, from peripheral regions toward the center. The simulations demonstrate that sequential activation produces a dynamically changing electric-field gradient, allowing the region responsible for dielectrophoretic displacement to be progressively shifted across the system. As the switching sequence advances toward the peripheral electrodes, spheroids located at different initial radial positions are successively displaced inward and concentrated within the central region. This approach provides a basis for programmable positioning and concentration of three-dimensional biological objects in microfluidic systems. The research was funded by the Russian Science Foundation (project No. 26-72-10175).

Speaker

Margarita Zhgut
Center for Soft Matter and Physics of Fluids, Bauman Moscow State Technical University, Moscow, Russia
Russia

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