Microsphere Preparation Glass Chip
Glass microfluidic chip for controlled generation of monodisperse microspheres and microparticles using flow focusing technology. Reusable chip — designed for multiple experimental runs. Compatible with standard microfluidic tubing: steel pins (0.7 mm ID / 1.0 mm OD) and silicone tubing (0.8 mm ID / 1.9 mm OD). Available in bulk packs (5‑, 10‑, and 25‑unit) for lab-scale and consumable workflows.
Louise Corscadden, PhD
Neuroscience · ConductScience
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The Microsphere Preparation Glass Chip is a microfluidic device engineered for controlled generation of uniform microspheres and microparticles. This glass-based chip utilizes flow focusing principles to produce monodisperse spheres with precise size control, making it suitable for applications requiring consistent particle characteristics. The device supports various materials including hydrogels, polymers, and biocompatible substances for diverse research applications.
The chip features microfluidic channels designed to create stable droplet formation through controlled flow dynamics. Glass construction provides chemical inertness, optical transparency for real-time monitoring, and compatibility with a wide range of solvents and reagents. The device is particularly valuable for researchers requiring reproducible microsphere production for drug delivery studies, cell encapsulation experiments, and particle synthesis protocols.
How It Works
The microsphere preparation chip operates on flow focusing principles, where two or more immiscible fluid streams converge at a junction to form droplets. The dispersed phase containing the microsphere material flows through a central channel, while the continuous phase flows through surrounding channels. At the junction, shear forces and interfacial tension create uniform droplets that solidify into microspheres through polymerization, gelation, or solvent evaporation.
Glass construction provides precise channel geometry and surface properties that enable consistent droplet formation. The channel dimensions and flow rate ratios determine the final microsphere size, typically ranging from micrometers to hundreds of micrometers. The transparent glass material allows real-time optical monitoring of the droplet formation process, enabling immediate adjustment of parameters for optimal particle characteristics.
Temperature control and chemical compatibility of glass surfaces support various crosslinking mechanisms and material systems. The chip design accommodates different viscosities and surface tensions, making it suitable for aqueous, organic, and mixed solvent systems commonly used in microsphere preparation protocols.
Features & Benefits
Pack Size
- 5-Pack
- 10-Pack
- 25-Pack
Weight
- 3.3 kg
Dimensions
- L: 181.8 mm
- W: 136.3 mm
- H: 90.9 mm
| Feature | This Product | Typical Alternative | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material Construction | Borosilicate glass construction | PDMS polymer chips are common but have limited chemical compatibility | Glass construction enables use with organic solvents and aggressive chemicals that would swell or dissolve polymer devices |
| Optical Properties | High optical transparency for real-time monitoring | Some materials may have optical distortion or autofluorescence | Clear visualization enables immediate process optimization and quality control during microsphere formation |
| Chemical Compatibility | Compatible with wide range of solvents and reagents | Polymer devices often have limited solvent compatibility | Supports diverse material systems and crosslinking chemistries for various microsphere applications |
| Reusability | Multiple use cycles with proper cleaning | Some devices are single-use or have limited reuse capability | Reduces per-experiment costs and enables method development with consistent device characteristics |
This glass microsphere preparation chip offers superior chemical compatibility and optical clarity compared to polymer alternatives. The robust construction supports multiple use cycles and accommodates diverse solvent systems for various research applications.
Practical Tips
Always introduce the continuous phase first to properly wet the channels before starting the dispersed phase flow.
Why: Proper channel wetting prevents irregular droplet formation and ensures stable operation from startup.
Flush channels immediately after use with appropriate solvents to prevent material buildup and crosslinking residues.
Why: Prompt cleaning prevents permanent blockages that could render the chip unusable for future experiments.
Characterize droplet size versus flow rate ratios for each new material system before starting production runs.
Why: Material properties affect droplet formation dynamics, requiring system-specific optimization for consistent results.
If droplet formation becomes irregular, check for air bubbles in the inlet lines and re-prime if necessary.
Why: Air bubbles disrupt flow stability and create inconsistent shear conditions at the droplet formation junction.
Monitor droplet formation visually throughout the run and document any changes in formation frequency or size.
Why: Process variations can indicate developing problems or the need for parameter adjustments to maintain quality.
Handle the glass chip carefully to avoid breakage and use appropriate chemical safety protocols for all reagents.
Why: Glass chips can create sharp fragments if broken and many microsphere materials involve potentially hazardous chemicals.
Setup Guide
What’s in the Box
- Microsphere preparation glass chip
- Inlet port connectors (typical)
- User guide (typical)
- Certificate of quality (typical)
Warranty
ConductScience provides a one-year manufacturer warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship, with technical support for application guidance and troubleshooting.
Compliance
What particle size range can this chip produce?
Particle size depends on channel dimensions and flow rate ratios. Consult the product datasheet for specific size ranges achievable with your chip configuration.
What materials are compatible with glass construction?
Glass provides compatibility with most organic solvents, aqueous solutions, acids, and bases. Avoid hydrofluoric acid and strong alkaline solutions at elevated temperatures.
How do I control microsphere size?
Adjust the flow rate ratio between continuous and dispersed phases. Higher continuous phase flow rates typically produce smaller droplets.
Can this chip be reused?
Yes, the glass chip can be cleaned and reused multiple times with appropriate solvent flushing between different materials or experiments.
What viscosity range is supported?
The chip accommodates various viscosities, but optimal performance ranges depend on channel geometry. Very high viscosity materials may require modified flow conditions.
How do I prevent channel clogging?
Filter all solutions before use, maintain appropriate flow rates, and flush channels immediately after use to prevent material buildup.
What optical access is available?
The transparent glass construction allows full optical access from both top and bottom for microscopy and real-time monitoring of droplet formation.
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