Microfluidic capturing-dynamics of paramagnetic bead suspensions

Abstract

We study theoretically the capturing of paramagnetic beads by a magnetic field gradient in a microfluidic channel treating the beads as a continuum. Bead motion is affected by both fluidic and magnetic forces. The transfer of momentum from beads to the fluid creates an effective bead–bead interaction that greatly aids capturing. We demonstrate that for a given inlet flow speed a critical density of beads exists above which complete capturing takes place.