Microfluidic apparatus having an optimized electrowetting surface and related systems and methods

Abstract

Microfluidic devices having an electrowetting configuration and an optimized droplet actuation surface are provided. The devices include a conductive substrate having a dielectric layer, a hydrophobic layer covalently bonded to the dielectric layer, and a first electrode electrically coupled to the dielectric layer and configured to be connected to a voltage source. The microfluidic devices also include a second electrode configured to be connected to the voltage source. The hydrophobic layer features self-associating molecules covalently bonded to a surface of the dielectric layer in a manner that produces a densely-packed monolayer that resists intercalation and or penetration by polar molecules or species. Also provided are microfluidic devices having an electrowetting configuration that further include a section having a dielectrophoresis configuration; systems that include microfluidic devices in combination with an aqueous droplet and a fluidic medium immiscible with the aqueous droplet; related kits; and methods of manipulating droplets within the microfluidic devices.