Liquid marbles: review of recent progress in physical properties, formation techniques, and lab-in-a-marble applications in microreactors and biosensors

Abstract

Liquid marbles (LMs) are nonsticking droplets whose surfaces are covered with low-wettability particles. Owing to their high mobility, shape reconfigurability, and widely accessible liquid/particle possibilities, the research on LMs has flourished since 2001. Their physical properties, fabrication mechanisms, and functionalisation capabilities indicate their potential for various applications. This review summarises the fundamental properties of LMs, the recent advances (mainly works published in 2020–2023) in the concept of LMs, physical properties, formation methods, LM-templated material design, and biochemical applications. Finally, the potential development and variations of LMs are discussed.