DLS feedback controlled continuous particle production

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Andreas Dietzel
• Subject Area: Microsystems ; Measurement Systems
• Term: from 2019 to 2024
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 426328385

The combination of a controllable microfluidic nanoparticle generator from the Institute of Microtechnology (IMT), TU Braunschweig, with the flowDLS device developed at the Fraunhofer Institute for Microengineering and Microsystems (IMM) in Mainz results in a feedback controlled nanoparticle reactor, which is capable to precisely adjust the particle size, size distribution, and shape of the particles in a long-term stable process. The project is based on many years of experince with lab-on-chip systems for pharmaceutical applications at the IMT. Already in the FOR "Mikropart", particle generation in microsystems carried out under particularly controlled conditions was a central topic. So far, the required verification of particle properties by measurement and counting is only possible after the preparation in a separate system. The flowDLS prototype allows a particle measurement in flow. Within this project, the device will be combined with a microfluidic particle generation unit to create a user-friendly system for nanoparticle production with integrated analytics. The envisaged system combines methods developed on university level with integrated analytical periphery of the Fraunhofer Institute. It will be be further developed up to the level of usability in industrial laboratories. The application partner ConSenxus GmbH is a device manufacturer with decades of experience in the field of particle analysis methods. The special charm of the targeted system is found in its flexibility, as the overall concept includes individual modules. A microfluidic or measuring cuvette that can be attached to the system remains interchangeable. This means that the analytical part can later be used in combination with further particle production systems. ConSenxus has useful contacts and the necessary special knowledge to adapt the system to the needs of potential users. The device spares users, stepping into particle production in very small quantities, the need for in-house analytics. It thus expands the possible user group and reduces costs and overall effort for the operator. This is due to the fact that no specially trained personnel is required for the operation of the device. The system to be deveoped can be easily connected to the supply of primary materials via pumps and after adjusting the appropriate parameters, continuous particle production with continuous property monitoring starts at the push of a button. The aim is not only to satisfy direct user requirements, but also to open up new research topics. For example, it is expected that the availability of nanoformulations with controllable property parameters featuring only small variances in a sample will allow detailed investigations on the respective biological effects.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants (Transfer Project)
• Major Instrumentation: Parylene-Beschichtungsanlage
• Instrumentation Group: 2180 Maschinen für Oberflächenbehandlung (Elektropolieren, Galvanisieren, Lackieren, Sandstrahlen)
• Application Partner: ConSenxuS GmbH
• Cooperation Partners: Dr. Michael Baßler; Professor Dr. Michael Maskos