Microhairs could enhance lab-on-a-chip devices

Engineers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have developed an elastic material coated with microscopic, hair-like structures that tilt in response to a magnetic field.

According to research, the microhairs can tilt to form a path through which fluid can flow.

The material can even direct water upward, against gravity, the researchers claim.

“Such patterns may be useful in directing cells through a microchip’s channels

MIT graduate Yangying Zhu

During experiments, the magnetically activated material directed both the flow of fluid and light - in a similar way window blinds tilt to filter sunlight.

In the short term, MIT engineers suggest the material could be embedded in lab-on-a-chip devices to magnetically direct the flow of cells and other biological material through a diagnostic chip’s microchannels.

MIT graduate, and study author, Yangying Zhu says more complex magnetic fields could be designed to create intricate tilting patterns throughout array of the microhairs that are placed on an elastic, transparent layer of silicone.

“Such patterns may be useful in directing cells through a microchip’s channels, or wicking moisture from a windshield,” Zhu said.

In the long term, Zhu says the technology could be used to coat your car windscreen to manipulate rain or sunlight.

“You could filter how much solar radiation you want coming in, and also shed raindrops. This is an opportunity for the future.”