Programmable Patterning of Polymeric Microparticles By Floating Electrodes-Assisted Electrospray

We introduce an innovative method for patterning one or multiple types of polymeric microparticles by electrospraying them towards a collecting surface patterned with an array of microelectrodes. By independently programming the electric state of each microelectrode, microparticles can be confined within desired regions with a high patterning contrast. The patterning principle and the role of the floating electrodes are discussed. Co-patterning of multiple types of particles on a planar surface and along the vertical direction is demonstrated. With the superior co-patterning capacity and the simple configuration, this work is expected to facilitate the development of biosensing, microscale tissue engineering and other microparticle-based total analysis. * To whom all correspondence should be addressed. Yi Zhao, Ph.D. Rm 294 Bevis Hall, 1080 carmack Road Columbus, OH 43210, USA Tel: (614) 247-7424 Fax: (614) 292-7301