Rocket Stirrers
Biocompatible and biodegradable self-propelled mixing devices for small-scale stirring.
We are seeking collaborators or partners who would be interested in testing "Rocket Stirrers" in an industrial setting.
Background
The critical stirring of solutions relies on an input, usually external. These inputs take up
valuable time and introduce external elements to such solutions.
Solution
We have developed small-scale devices that can stir via self-propulsion to promote mixing in small volumes (pL to mL) of solutions. They are easy to deploy relative to conventional stirrers and shakers that require an external energy source.
These "Rocket Stirrers" are:
- biocompatible;
- biodegradable;
- customisable to user requirements; and
- compatible with miniaturised assay formats like microfluidic devices.
The stirrers are produced by reactive inkjet printing to produce autonomously rotating
biocompatible silk-based micro stirrers that enhance fluid mixing. Rotary motion is generated either by the release of a surface-active agent resulting in a Marangoni effect or by catalytically powered bubble propulsion.
Applications
This technology has the potential to significantly improve mixing performance in a range of applications, including:
- Medical and environmental diagnostic testing using immuno-based or enzyme-based detection. Rocket Stirrers provide the potential for faster, more accurate tests.
- Targeted therapeutic delivery.
- Motion sensing.
- Environmental science – water bioremediation by selective removal of contaminants.
- Enhanced delivery of chemicals.
- Cell homogenisation.