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Droplet Microfluidic Optimisation Using Micropipette Characterisation of Bio-Instructive Polymeric Surfactants

2021; Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute; Volume: 26; Issue: 11 Linguagem: Inglês

10.3390/molecules26113302

1433-1373

Charlotte A. Henshaw, Adam A. Dundas, Valentina Cuzzucoli Crucitti, Morgan R. Alexander, Ricky Wildman, Felicity R. A. J. Rose, Derek J. Irvine, Philip M. Williams,

Electrowetting and Microfluidic Technologies

Droplet microfluidics can produce highly tailored microparticles whilst retaining monodispersity. However, these systems often require lengthy optimisation, commonly based on a trial-and-error approach, particularly when using bio-instructive, polymeric surfactants. Here, micropipette manipulation methods were used to optimise the concentration of bespoke polymeric surfactants to produce biodegradable (poly(d,l-lactic acid) (PDLLA)) microparticles with unique, bio-instructive surface chemistries. The effect of these three-dimensional surfactants on the interfacial tension of the system was analysed. It was determined that to provide adequate stabilisation, a low level (0.1% (w/v)) of poly(vinyl acetate-co-alcohol) (PVA) was required. Optimisation of the PVA concentration was informed by micropipette manipulation. As a result, successful, monodisperse particles were produced that maintained the desired bio-instructive surface chemistry.