Bioinspired Superwetting Open Microfluidics: From Concepts, Phenomena to Applications

Yifan Si, Chuxin Li, Jinlian Hu, Chengqi Zhang*, Zhichao Dong*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Journal Publications and ReviewsRGC 21 - Publication in refereed journalpeer-review

Abstract

Microfluidics and bioinspired superwetting materials, as two crucial branches of scientific research, are entering their golden age of development. As an emerging interdisciplinary subject of these two fields, bioinspired superwetting open microfluidics is triggering technological revolutions in many disciplines, including rapid medical diagnosis, biochemical analysis, liquid manipulation, 3D printing, etc. However, this new research area has yet to attract extensive attention. So, a timely review is necessary to organize the development process, summarize current achievements, and discuss the challenges or chances for the ongoing scientific trend. In this review, the evolution from closed to open microfluidics is combed first. Then, three typical bioinspired superwetting systems are introduced emphatically. Based on this, the bioinspired superwetting open microfluidics is divided into different categories according to the bionic objects as the focus of this study. Taking natural phenomena as the entry point, the research from the underlying mechanism to the application is systematically discussed and summarized. Several emerging applications are also mentioned. Finally, some views on major problems, existing challenges, and developing trends are briefly put forward in this field to guide future research. © 2023 Wiley-VCH GmbH.
Original languageEnglish
Article number2301017
JournalAdvanced Functional Materials
Volume33
Issue number32
Online published25 Apr 2023
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 8 Aug 2023

Research Keywords

  • bioinspired
  • liquid manipulation
  • open microfluidics
  • superhydrophilic
  • superhydrophobic

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