H-type filter device for analysing a component

Abstract

A flow apparatus for measuring at least one biophysical property of one or more components is provided. The apparatus comprises one or more microfluidic devices. Each microfluidic device comprises: a sample channel having a sample inlet port for introducing a sample fluid flow comprising one or more components at a first flow rate into an elongate distribution channel, an auxiliary channel having an auxiliary inlet port for introducing an auxiliary fluid flow at a second flow rate into the elongate distribution channel. The distribution channel is configured to enable a lateral distribution of the components from the sample fluid flow into the auxiliary fluid flow. Each microfluidic device further comprises two or more capillary channels provided downstream and in fluid communication with the distribution channel, at least one outlet port provided downstream of each of the capillary channels. The sample inlet port and/or the outlet port further comprises an expansion feature between the channel and the corresponding port, whereby the expansion feature comprises a tapered section adjacent to the channel and a curved section adjacent to the port. The apparatus further comprises a switchable pressure source configured to control the flow of the fluids through the channels; and a detector configured to detect and measure at least one biophysical property of the or each component sequentially or simultaneously in each of the capillary channels and/or outlet ports on the microfluidic device.