In recent years, researchers  from different fields have been studying the phenomenon of  electrowetting for fluid control at the microscale. Applications include optical displays, localized cooing, and digital microfluidics.  However, electrowetting devices are susceptible to rapid degradation.  The large electrical fields and frequently corrosive environments are made more challenging by the drive to reduce dielectric thickness for lower operating voltages.

We have recently developed methods for continuous actuation of droplets along a single electrode using a DC voltage at speeds over 50 mm/s.  See the photo below and the video here.

Integration Laboratory