I want to work on microfluidic chip. Dispersed phase of alginate solution and continuous phase of Span 80 solution in combination with mineral oil or liquid paraffin. But I had a problem with the method of dissolution and percentage of concentrations and... to make a continuous phase solution. I would be grateful if you could help me.
To create a continuous phase solution using Span 80 and mineral oil or liquid paraffin, you'll need to dissolve Span 80 in the oil phase:Here's a simple example calculation to help you get started:
Let's say you want to create a 0.5 wt% Span 80 solution in mineral oil with a density of 0.85 g/mL.
Calculate the volume of Span 80 required:
Volume of Span 80 = (0.5 wt% x 100 g) / (1.05 g/mL - 0.85 g/mL) ≈ 4.76 mL
Calculate the volume of mineral oil required:
Volume of mineral oil = Total volume - Volume of Span 80 ≈ 100 g / 0.85 g/mL - 4.76 mL ≈ 95.24 mL
Mix the Span 80 with the mineral oil to achieve the desired concentration:
Combine 4.76 mL of Span 80 with 95.24 mL of mineral oil to create the 0.5 wt% Span 80 solution in mineral oil.
Remember to adjust the concentrations and volumes based on your specific requirements and the properties of your materials.
Developing a microfluidic chip for the dispersion of alginate solution within a continuous phase of Span 80 solution, combined with mineral oil or liquid paraffin, requires careful consideration of various factors, including dissolution methods and concentration percentages. Here's a structured approach to address your concerns:
By following these steps and systematically exploring different dissolution methods, concentration ranges, and formulation parameters, you can overcome challenges associated with developing a microfluidic chip for your application. Don't hesitate to experiment and iterate, as each iteration brings valuable insights and improvements to the design and performance of your microfluidic device.
Tarun Parashar
Hi dear friend
Thank you for the points you raised, it was very comprehensive and complete.
I tried several times to make solutions, I made 5% and 10% volume/volume concentrations of Span 80 with liquid paraffin and mineral oil solvents, but they had a high sedimentation rate, I also used heating and an ultrasonic bath, but It was not effective.
Do you mean to change the solvent to ethanol or isopropanol? Or should I make a mixture of liquid paraffin or mineral oil with ethanol?
In the review of articles related to alginate coating by microfluidic chip, these types of solvents (Span 80 with mineral oil or liquid paraffin) were used. I don't know if the coating operation is done well by changing the solvent.
Abdelhak Maghchiche
Hi dear friend
Thank you for the perfect and clear example you gave.
I made my solutions without considering the density and it is definitely more accurate this way. I hope that by following the mentioned tips, my solvency problem will be solved.
hi dear friend, Marzieh Farmanara
It sounds like you've made some significant efforts in preparing your solutions, and I appreciate your detailed feedback. Based on your description, it seems like you're encountering challenges with sedimentation despite trying different concentrations of Span 80 and using various dissolution methods.
Since you've already attempted both heating and ultrasonic bath techniques without success, it might be worth considering alternative solvents or solvent mixtures to improve the dissolution of Span 80. While mineral oil and liquid paraffin are commonly used in microfluidic applications, they might not be the most suitable solvents for your specific formulation.
Given your experience and the literature review you've conducted, it's understandable that you're hesitant to deviate from the solvents commonly used in alginate coating by microfluidic chips. However, sometimes a slight modification in solvent choice or formulation can lead to better results.
Here are a few suggestions to consider:
Before proceeding with any changes, it might be beneficial to conduct a small-scale trial using the suggested solvents or solvent mixtures. This will allow you to assess their effectiveness in reducing sedimentation and improving the homogeneity of your continuous phase solution.
Remember, troubleshooting in experimental work often involves a process of trial and error, so don't hesitate to explore alternative approaches until you find a solution that works best for your specific application. If you have any further questions or need additional assistance, feel free to reach out.
Hi Tarun Parashar
It is true that I should enter the operational phase soon. Thank you very much for the information you gave me and the time you took.
good luck
Hi Abdelhak Maghchiche
I had trouble understanding some of the calculations you made. Please clarify if possible.
Thanks
*0.5 wt% means 5 grams of the desired substance in 100 ml of solution?
According to the following statement:
Volume of Span 80 = (0.5 wt% x 100 g) / (1.05 g/mL - 0.85 g/mL) ≈ 4.76 mL
* 1.05 g/ml is the density of mineral oil?
* What is 100 grams in the expression (0.5 wt% x 100 g)?
Although the calculations seem quite logical, but I could not reach the reported answers and I don't know what is the problem?
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