Nanoparticle trapping and transport techniques

Abstract

Approaches presented herein enable a device for trapping nanoparticles. More specifically, the device comprises a dielectric layer, an electrically insulating lid, a plurality of trapping electrodes, and electrical circuit connectors. The dielectric layer has an exposed surface, which is structured to form a set of recesses in the dielectric layer. The recesses are dimensioned so as to allow nanoparticles (e.g. biomolecules) to be trapped. The electrically insulating lid extends above the exposed surface of the dielectric layer. A flow path is defined between the lid and the exposed surface, such that a liquid can be introduced in the flow path. The trapping electrodes are arranged opposite the lid with respect to the exposed surface to face respective ones of the recesses. This arrangement defines pairs, such that each pair associates one of the trapping electrodes with a respective one of the recesses.