阅读说明：本技术 液体处理装置和液体处理方法 (Liquid treatment apparatus and liquid treatment method ) 是由 山内拓史 于 2021-03-23 设计创作，主要内容包括：本发明涉及液体处理装置和液体处理方法。液体处理装置具有：用于供主液体流动的主流路；在所述主流路的底面开口且用于供鞘液流动的第一鞘液流路；以及在所述主流路的顶面开口且用于供所述鞘液流动的第二鞘液流路。所述第一鞘液流路和所述第二鞘液流路中的至少一者的与所述主流路的合流部由基板和向远离所述基板的方向弯曲的薄膜的弯曲部构成。(The present invention relates to a liquid treatment apparatus and a liquid treatment method. The liquid treatment device comprises: a main flow path for the main liquid to flow; a first sheath fluid channel that is open at a bottom surface of the main channel and through which a sheath fluid flows; and a second sheath fluid channel that is open at a top surface of the main channel and through which the sheath fluid flows. A junction between the main channel and at least one of the first sheath fluid channel and the second sheath fluid channel is formed by a substrate and a curved portion of a thin film that is curved in a direction away from the substrate.)

1. A liquid processing apparatus having a substrate and a thin film joined to the substrate and forming a sheath flow including a main liquid and a sheath liquid surrounding the main liquid, the liquid processing apparatus comprising:

a main flow path through which the main liquid flows;

a first sheath fluid channel that is open at a bottom surface of the main channel and through which the sheath fluid flows; and

a second sheath fluid channel that is open at a top surface of the main channel and through which the sheath fluid flows,

a joining portion of at least one of the first sheath fluid channel and the second sheath fluid channel with the main channel is constituted by the substrate and a bent portion of the thin film bent in a direction away from the substrate.

2. The liquid treatment apparatus according to claim 1,

the main flow path is composed of a first groove formed in one surface of the substrate and a part of the thin film that closes the first groove,

the first sheath fluid channel is composed of a second groove formed on the one surface of the substrate and a part of the thin film for sealing the second groove,

the junction of the second sheath fluid channel and the main channel is formed by a part of the one surface of the substrate, a part of the opening of the first groove, and the bent portion of the thin film.

3. The liquid treatment apparatus as claimed in claim 2,

the first sheath fluid channel is also open at two side surfaces of the main channel that face each other.

4. The liquid treatment apparatus according to claim 1,

the film includes: a first film bonded to one surface of the substrate; and a second film bonded to the other surface of the substrate,

the main flow path is constituted by a slit formed in the substrate, a part of the first film that closes one opening of the slit, and a part of the second film that closes the other opening of the slit,

a junction of the first sheath fluid channel and the main channel is constituted by a part of the one surface of the substrate, a part of the one opening of the slit, and a bent portion of the first thin film bent in a direction away from the substrate,

the junction of the second sheath fluid channel and the main channel is formed by a part of the other surface of the substrate, a part of the other opening of the slit, and a bent portion of the second thin film bent in a direction away from the substrate.

5. A liquid treatment method for forming a sheath flow by using the liquid treatment apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, the liquid treatment method comprising:

flowing the main liquid in the main flow path and flowing the sheath liquid in the first sheath liquid flow path and the second sheath liquid flow path to form a sheath flow including the main liquid and the sheath liquid surrounding the main liquid.

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a liquid processing apparatus and a liquid processing method for forming a sheath flow.

Background

In recent years, a channel sheet has been used for analyzing cells, proteins, nucleic acids, and the like. The flow sheet has an advantage that the amount of a sample and a reagent required for analysis can be small, and is expected to be used in various applications such as clinical examination, food examination, and environmental examination.

For example, patent document 1 discloses a flow channel sheet for sorting out fine particles (for example, cells) in a liquid flowing through a main flow channel and taking out only the intended fine particles. The flow path sheet described in patent document 1 is manufactured by laminating three substrates on which predetermined grooves and through holes are formed. In this channel sheet, two sheath fluid channels through which a sheath fluid flows are merged with a sample fluid channel through which a sample fluid containing fine particles flows from both the left and right sides. By thus joining the sheath liquid to the sample liquid from both the left and right sides, a sheath flow in which the laminar flows of the sample liquid are sandwiched between the laminar flows of the two sheath liquids is formed in the main channel located downstream of the joining point.

Documents of the prior art

Patent document

Patent document 1: japanese patent laid-open No. 2014-36604

Disclosure of Invention

Problems to be solved by the invention

The flow path sheet described in patent document 1 is manufactured by laminating three or more substrates, and therefore has a problem of high manufacturing cost. In the flow channel sheet described in patent document 1, a sheath flow having a three-layer structure in which a laminar flow of the sample liquid is sandwiched between laminar flows of two sheath liquids is formed, but depending on the application, it may be desirable to form a sheath flow having a two-layer structure in which a laminar flow of the sample liquid is surrounded by a laminar flow of the sheath liquid.

The purpose of the present invention is to provide a liquid processing apparatus which has a substrate and a thin film bonded to the substrate and is capable of forming a sheath flow in which a main liquid is surrounded by a sheath liquid. Another object of the present invention is to provide a liquid treatment method for forming a sheath flow using the liquid treatment apparatus.

Means for solving the problems

A liquid processing apparatus according to the present invention includes a substrate and a thin film bonded to the substrate, and forms a sheath flow including a main liquid and a sheath liquid surrounding the main liquid, the liquid processing apparatus including: a main flow path through which the main liquid flows; a first sheath fluid channel that is open at a bottom surface of the main channel and through which the sheath fluid flows; and a second sheath fluid channel that is open at a top surface of the main channel and through which the sheath fluid flows, wherein a junction between the main channel and at least one of the first sheath fluid channel and the second sheath fluid channel is formed by the substrate and a curved portion of the thin film that is curved in a direction away from the substrate.

The liquid treatment method of the present invention is a liquid treatment method for forming a sheath flow using the liquid treatment apparatus of the present invention, the liquid treatment method including the steps of: flowing the main liquid in the main flow path and flowing the sheath liquid in the first sheath liquid flow path and the second sheath liquid flow path to form a sheath flow including the main liquid and the sheath liquid surrounding the main liquid.

Effects of the invention

According to the present invention, a sheath flow in which the main liquid is surrounded by the sheath liquid can be formed using a simple apparatus.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a liquid treatment apparatus according to embodiment 1;

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the liquid treatment device;

FIG. 3A is a top view of the liquid treatment device, and FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B in FIG. 3A, FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C in FIG. 3A, and FIG. 4C is a cross-sectional view taken along line D-D in FIG. 3A;

FIG. 5A is a view showing a main liquid and a sheath liquid at a junction of a main channel and a first sheath liquid channel, FIG. 5B is a view showing a main liquid and a sheath liquid at a junction of a main channel and a second sheath liquid channel, and FIG. 5C is a view showing a main liquid and a sheath liquid in a main channel downstream of a junction of a main channel and a second sheath liquid channel;

fig. 6 is a perspective view of a liquid treatment apparatus according to embodiment 2;

FIG. 7A is a top view of the liquid treatment device, and FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of FIG. 7A;

FIG. 8A is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B in FIG. 7A, FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C in FIG. 7A, and FIG. 8C is a cross-sectional view taken along line D-D in FIG. 7A;

fig. 9 is a perspective view of a liquid treatment apparatus according to embodiment 3;

FIG. 10A is a top view of the liquid treatment device, and FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of FIG. 10A;

FIG. 11A is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B in FIG. 10A, FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C in FIG. 10A, and FIG. 11C is a cross-sectional view taken along line D-D in FIG. 10A;

fig. 12 is a perspective view of a liquid treatment apparatus according to embodiment 4;

FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of the liquid treatment device;

FIG. 14A is a top view of the liquid treatment device, and FIG. 14B is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of FIG. 14A;

FIG. 15A is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B in FIG. 14A, FIG. 15B is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C in FIG. 14A, and FIG. 15C is a cross-sectional view taken along line D-D in FIG. 14A;

fig. 16A is a view showing the main liquid and the sheath liquid at the junction of the main channel and the first sheath liquid channel, fig. 16B is a view showing the main liquid and the sheath liquid at the junction of the main channel and the second sheath liquid channel, and fig. 16C is a view showing the main liquid and the sheath liquid in the main channel downstream of the junction of the main channel and the second sheath liquid channel.

Description of the reference numerals

100. 200, 300, 400 liquid treatment device

110. 310, 410 substrates

111. 411 first through hole

112 first groove

113. 413 second through hole

114 second groove

115. 415 third through hole

116 third groove

117. 417 fourth through hole

120. 220 film

121. 221 bending part

130. 430 main liquid introduction part

131. 431 main flow path

132. 432 first sheath fluid introduction part

133. 433 first sheath fluid channel

134. 334, 434 second sheath fluid introducing part

135. 335, 435 second sheath fluid channel

136. 436 liquid take-out part

140 main liquid

141 sheath fluid

412 slit

420 first film

421 first bending part

422 third through hole

423 second film

424 second bend

425 first through hole

426 second through hole

427 fourth through hole

Detailed Description

[ embodiment 1]

(Structure of liquid treatment apparatus)

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a liquid treatment apparatus 100 according to embodiment 1. Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the liquid treatment apparatus 100. Fig. 3A is a plan view of the liquid treatment apparatus 100, and fig. 3B is a cross-sectional view taken along line a-a in fig. 3A. Fig. 4A is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B in fig. 3A, fig. 4B is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C in fig. 3A, and fig. 4C is a cross-sectional view taken along line D-D in fig. 3A.

As shown in these figures, the liquid treatment apparatus 100 has a substrate 110 and a thin film 120. The substrate 110 has a groove serving as a flow path and a through hole serving as an inlet or an outlet. The thin film 120 is bonded to one surface of the substrate 110 so as to close the openings of the grooves and the through holes formed in the substrate 110. A partial region of the film 120 is formed as a bent portion 121 bent in a direction away from the substrate 110. The groove of the substrate 110 closed by the film 120 serves as a flow path through which the main liquid or the sheath liquid flows. The space in the bending portion 121 also serves as a flow path through which the sheath fluid flows.

The thickness of the substrate 110 is not particularly limited. For example, the thickness of the substrate 110 is 1mm or more and 10mm or less. In addition, the material of the substrate 110 is not particularly limited. For example, the material of the substrate 110 may be appropriately selected from known resins and glass. The material of the substrate 110 includes, for example: polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate, polymethyl methacrylate, polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, polyether, polyethylene, polystyrene, a cycloolefin resin, a silicone resin, and an elastomer.

The thickness of the film 120 is not particularly limited as long as it can secure a required strength. For example, the thickness of the thin film 120 is 30 μm or more and 300 μm or less. The material of the film 120 is not particularly limited as long as it can form the bent portion 121. For example, the material of the film 120 may be appropriately selected from known resins. The material of the film 120 includes, for example: polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate, polymethyl methacrylate, polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, polyether, polyethylene, polystyrene, a cycloolefin resin, a silicone resin, and an elastomer. In the case of observing the main liquid flowing in the flow path, it is preferable that the material of the film 120 is transparent. In addition, when observing fluorescence of the host liquid flowing through the flow path, the material of the thin film 120 is preferably a material that transmits excitation light and fluorescence and has less autofluorescence. The film 120 is bonded to the substrate 110 by, for example, heat fusion, laser welding, an adhesive, or the like.

In the present embodiment, the liquid treatment apparatus 100 includes a main liquid introduction portion 130, a main channel 131, two first sheath liquid introduction portions 132, two first sheath liquid channels 133, two second sheath liquid introduction portions 134, two second sheath liquid channels 135, and a liquid extraction portion 136.

The main liquid introduction portion 130 is a recessed portion with a bottom into which the main liquid is introduced. In the present embodiment, the main liquid introduction portion 130 is constituted by the first through hole 111 formed in the substrate 110 and a part of the film 120 that closes one opening of the first through hole 111 (see fig. 2). The shape and size of the first through hole 111 are not particularly limited and may be appropriately set according to the purpose. The first through hole 111 has, for example, a substantially cylindrical shape. The diameter of the first through hole 111 is, for example, about 2 mm.

The kind of the main liquid introduced into the main liquid introduction portion 130 is not particularly limited. For example, the main liquid is a cell suspension, a DNA-containing liquid or an RNA-containing liquid, etc. The primary liquid may be a liquid (sample liquid) containing a sample such as blood, cells, nucleic acids, or the like to be analyzed, a liquid containing a reagent, beads, or the like, or a mixture of a liquid containing a sample to be analyzed and a liquid containing a reagent, beads, or the like.

The main channel 131 is a channel in which liquid can move. An upstream end of the main channel 131 is connected to the main liquid introduction portion 130, and a downstream end of the main channel 131 is connected to the liquid extraction portion 136. As will be described later, the first sheath fluid channel 133 and the second sheath fluid channel 135 are connected to the main channel 131 at different positions of the main channel 131. In the present embodiment, the main liquid is introduced from the main liquid introduction portion 130 into the main channel 131, and the sheath liquid is introduced from the junction of the main channel 131 and the first sheath liquid channel 133 and the junction of the main channel 131 and the second sheath liquid channel 135. Therefore, the main liquid flows through the main channel 131 between the main liquid introduction portion 130 and the junction between the main channel 131 and the first sheath liquid channel 133, and the main liquid and the sheath liquid flow through the main channel 131 between the junction between the main channel 131 and the first sheath liquid channel 133 and the liquid extraction portion 136. As will be described later, the main liquid and the sheath liquid flow through the main channel 131 in a state where the sheath liquid surrounds the sheath flow of the main liquid between the main channel 131 and the second sheath liquid channel 135 and the liquid extraction section 136.

The main channel 131 is formed by the first groove 112 formed in the substrate 110 and a part of the thin film 120 that closes the opening of the first groove 112 (see fig. 2). The cross-sectional area and cross-sectional shape of the first groove 112 are not particularly limited as long as they are areas and shapes that can form a sheath flow in the main channel 131 in which the main liquid is surrounded by the sheath liquid. In the present specification, the "cross section of the channel or groove" refers to a cross section of the channel or groove perpendicular to the direction in which the liquid flows. The cross-sectional shape of the first groove 112 is, for example, a substantially rectangular shape having a length (width and depth) of one side of several tens μm or so. The cross-sectional area of the first groove 112 may be constant or non-constant in the flow direction of the liquid. In the present embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the first groove 112 is constant.

The two first sheath liquid introduction portions 132 and the two second sheath liquid introduction portions 134 are bottomed recesses into which the sheath liquid is introduced. In the present embodiment, each of the two first sheath liquid introduction portions 132 is formed by the second through hole 113 formed in the substrate 110 and a part of the film 120 that closes one opening of the second through hole 113 (see fig. 2). The two second sheath liquid introduction portions 134 are each formed of a third through hole 115 formed in the substrate 110 and a part of the thin film 120 that closes one opening of the third through hole 115 (see fig. 2). The shapes and sizes of the second through hole 113 and the third through hole 115 are not particularly limited and may be appropriately set according to the purpose. The second through hole 113 and the third through hole 115 are, for example, substantially cylindrical in shape. The diameters of the second through hole 113 and the third through hole 115 are, for example, about 2 mm.

The type of the sheath fluid introduced into the first sheath fluid introduction portion 132 and the second sheath fluid introduction portion 134 is not particularly limited. The sheath fluid is, for example, physiological saline or a buffer solution. When fluorescence observation is performed on the main liquid flowing through the flow path, the sheath liquid is preferably a liquid with less optical interference.

The two first sheath fluid channels 133 are channels in which the fluid can move. The upstream ends of the two first sheath liquid channels 133 are connected to different first sheath liquid introduction portions 132, respectively, and the downstream ends of both the two first sheath liquid channels 133 are connected to the main channel 131. The sheath liquid introduced into the first sheath liquid introduction portion 132 flows through the first sheath liquid channel 133. The first sheath fluid channel 133 is open at least at the bottom surface of the main channel 131. In the present embodiment, the "bottom surface of the flow channel" refers to a surface of the inner surface of the flow channel that faces the film 120. In the present embodiment, the two first sheath fluid channels 133 are open on two side surfaces of the main channel 131 facing each other, in addition to the bottom surface of the main channel 131 (see fig. 2 and 4A). The openings of the two first sheath fluid channels 133 at the bottom surface of the main channel 131 are common openings. The openings of the two first sheath fluid channels 133 on the side surfaces of the main channel 131 face each other.

The two first sheath liquid channels 133 are formed by the second groove 114 formed in the substrate 110 and a part of the thin film 120 that closes the opening of the second groove 114 (see fig. 2). The cross-sectional area and cross-sectional shape of the second groove 114 are not particularly limited as long as an appropriate amount of sheath fluid for forming a sheath flow at an appropriate position in the main channel 131 can be introduced. The cross-sectional shape of the second groove 114 is, for example, a substantially rectangular shape having a length (width and depth) of one side of several tens μm or so. The cross-sectional area of the second groove 114 may be constant or non-constant in the flow direction of the liquid. In the present embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the second groove 114 is constant.

The two second sheath fluid channels 135 are channels in which the fluid can move. The upstream ends of the two second sheath fluid channels 135 are connected to different second sheath fluid introduction portions 134, and the downstream ends of both the two second sheath fluid channels 135 are connected to the main channel 131. The sheath liquid introduced into the second sheath liquid introduction portion 134 flows through the second sheath liquid channel 135. The second sheath fluid channel 135 is open at least at the top surface of the main channel 131. In the present embodiment, the "top surface of the flow channel" refers to a surface on the side of the film 120 (surface formed by the film 120) among the inner surfaces of the flow channel. In the present embodiment, the two second sheath fluid channels 135 are open only at the top surface of the main channel 131 (see fig. 4B). The openings of the two second sheath fluid channels 135 at the top surface of the main channel 131 are common openings.

The second sheath fluid channel 135 is constituted by the third groove 116 formed in the substrate 110 and a part of the thin film 120 that closes the opening of the third groove 116, except for the portion joined to the main channel 131 (see fig. 2 and 4B). As shown in fig. 2, the third slot 116 is not connected to the first slot 112. The cross-sectional area and cross-sectional shape of the third groove 116 are not particularly limited as long as an appropriate amount of sheath fluid for forming a sheath flow in the main channel 131 can be introduced. The cross-sectional shape of the third groove 116 is, for example, a substantially rectangular shape having a length (width and depth) of one side of several tens μm or so. The cross-sectional area of the third groove 116 may be constant or non-constant in the flow direction of the liquid. In the present embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the third groove 116 is constant.

The joint of the second sheath fluid channel 135 and the main channel 131 is formed by a part of one surface of the substrate 110 (the surface to which the thin film 120 is bonded), a part of the opening of the first groove 112 (the groove constituting the main channel 131), and the bent portion 121 of the thin film 120 (see fig. 2 and 4B). As described above, the bent portion 121 is a portion that is provided in the film 120 and is bent (recessed) in a direction away from the substrate 110. The bent portion 121 faces the surface of the substrate 110 on which no groove is formed, but is not joined to the substrate 110. Therefore, the sheath fluid flowing from between the third groove 116 and the thin film 120 passes through the space between the substrate 110 and the bending portion 121, and is introduced into the main channel 131 from the top surface side of the main channel 131. The shape and size of the bending portion 121 are not particularly limited as long as an appropriate amount of sheath fluid for forming a sheath flow in the main channel 131 can be introduced. In the present embodiment, the shape of the bent portion 121 in plan view is a substantially elliptical shape (a shape formed by two parallel lines of the same length and two semicircles) (see fig. 3A). The cross-sectional shape of the bent portion 121 in the short axis direction is a substantially circular arc shape (see fig. 3B).

In the present embodiment, the merging portion of the two first sheath liquid channels 133 is located upstream of the merging portion of the two second sheath liquid channels 135 in the main channel 131, but the position of the merging portion is not limited to this. For example, the junction of the two second sheath liquid channels 135 may be located upstream of the junction of the two first sheath liquid channels 133. Further, the junction of the two first sheath liquid channels 133 may be opposed to the junction of the two second sheath liquid channels 135.

The liquid extraction portion 136 is a bottomed recess portion for extracting the main liquid and the sheath liquid flowing through the main channel 131 in the state of the sheath flow. In the present embodiment, the liquid extraction unit 136 is constituted by the fourth through-hole 117 formed in the substrate 110 and a part of the thin film 120 that closes one opening of the fourth through-hole 117 (see fig. 2). The shape and size of the fourth through hole 117 are not particularly limited and may be appropriately set according to the purpose. The fourth through hole 117 has a substantially cylindrical shape, for example. The diameter of the fourth through hole 117 is, for example, about 2 mm.

(operation of liquid treatment apparatus)

Next, the operation (liquid processing method) of the liquid processing apparatus 100 will be described with reference to fig. 5A to 5C.

The main liquid is introduced into the main liquid introduction portion 130, and the sheath liquid is introduced into the two first sheath liquid introduction portions 132 and the two second sheath liquid introduction portions 134. In this state, the liquid take-out portion 136 is depressurized, or the main liquid introduction portion 130, the two first sheath liquid introduction portions 132, and the two second sheath liquid introduction portions 134 are pressurized. Thereby, the main liquid in the main liquid introduction portion 130 flows through the main flow path 131 to the liquid extraction portion 136. The sheath liquid in the first sheath liquid introduction portion 132 flows through the first sheath liquid channel 133 to the main channel 131, and the sheath liquid in the second sheath liquid introduction portion 134 flows through the second sheath liquid channel 135 to the main channel 131.

Fig. 5A is a diagram showing the main liquid 140 and the sheath liquid 141 at the junction of the main channel 131 and the two first sheath liquid channels 133 (corresponding to a partially enlarged view of the vicinity of the main channel 131 in fig. 4A). As shown in the drawing, since the two first sheath liquid channels 133 are open at the bottom and both side surfaces of the main channel 131, the sheath liquid 141 flowing from the two first sheath liquid channels 133 travels to the side and below of the main liquid 140 in the main channel 131 but does not travel to the upper side at the point of confluence of the main channel 131 and the two first sheath liquid channels 133. In the main channel 131, the main liquid 140 and the sheath liquid 141 flow in a laminar state.

Fig. 5B is a diagram showing the main liquid 140 and the sheath liquid 141 at the junction of the main channel 131 and the two second sheath liquid channels 135 (corresponding to a partially enlarged view of the vicinity of the main channel 131 in fig. 4B). As shown in the drawing, since the two second sheath liquid channels 135 are open at the top surface of the main channel 131, the sheath liquid 141 flowing from the two second sheath liquid channels 135 travels above the main liquid 140 in the main channel 131 at the junction of the main channel 131 and the two second sheath liquid channels 135. In the main channel 131, the sheath liquid 141 flowing from the two second sheath liquid channels 135 also flows in a laminar state.

Fig. 5C is a diagram showing the main liquid 140 and the sheath liquid 141 in the main channel 131 downstream of the junction of the main channel 131 and the two second sheath liquid channels 135 (corresponding to a partially enlarged view of the vicinity of the main channel 131 in fig. 4C). As described above, the sheath liquid 141 flowing from the two first sheath liquid channels 133 travels to the side and below the main liquid 140 in the main channel 131 (see fig. 5A), and the sheath liquid 141 flowing from the two second sheath liquid channels 135 travels above the main liquid 140 in the main channel 131 (see fig. 5B). As a result, as shown in fig. 5C, a sheath flow in which the main liquid 140 is surrounded by the sheath liquid 141 is formed. Here, "the main liquid is surrounded by the sheath liquid" means a state in which the sheath liquid surrounds the entire circumference of the main liquid in a cross section perpendicular to the flow direction of the main channel 131.

As shown in fig. 5C, the main liquid 140 may be observed or fluorescence may be observed in a state where a sheath flow is formed in the main channel 131. The main liquid 140 flows in a stable state surrounded by the sheath liquid 141 without contacting the inner wall of the main channel 131, and therefore, the main liquid 140 can be stably observed.

(Effect)

As described above, the liquid treatment apparatus 100 of the present embodiment can be manufactured inexpensively using the film 120, and can stably form a sheath flow in which the main liquid is surrounded by the sheath liquid. Further, by adjusting the shape of the bending portion 121, the amount ratio of the main liquid and the sheath liquid can be easily controlled.

In addition, when observing fluorescence of the main liquid in the main channel 131, since the thin film 120 is used instead of the substrate, the influence of autofluorescence can be reduced, and since the thin film 120 is thin, the degree of freedom of the working distance can be increased.

[ embodiment 2]

The liquid treatment apparatus 200 according to embodiment 2 differs from the liquid treatment apparatus 100 according to embodiment 1 only in the structure of the bending portion 221. The same components as those of the liquid treatment apparatus 100 according to embodiment 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof are omitted.

(Structure of liquid treatment apparatus)

Fig. 6 is a perspective view of a liquid treatment apparatus 200 according to embodiment 2. Fig. 7A is a plan view of the liquid treatment apparatus 200, and fig. 7B is a sectional view taken along line a-a in fig. 7A. Fig. 8A is a sectional view taken along line B-B in fig. 7A, fig. 8B is a sectional view taken along line C-C in fig. 7A, and fig. 8C is a sectional view taken along line D-D in fig. 7A.

As shown in these figures, the liquid treatment apparatus 200 includes a substrate 110 and a film 220. The substrate 110 has a groove serving as a flow path and a through hole serving as an inlet or an outlet. The thin film 220 is bonded to one surface of the substrate 110 so as to close the openings of the grooves and the through holes formed in the substrate 110. A partial region of the film 220 is formed as a bent portion 221 bent in a direction away from the substrate 110. The groove of the substrate 110 closed by the film 220 serves as a flow path through which the main liquid or the sheath liquid flows. The space in the curved portion 221 also serves as a channel through which the sheath fluid flows.

In the present embodiment, the liquid treatment apparatus 200 includes a main liquid introduction portion 130, a main channel 131, two first sheath liquid introduction portions 132, two first sheath liquid channels 133, two second sheath liquid introduction portions 134, two second sheath liquid channels 135, and a liquid extraction portion 136.

The upstream ends of the two second sheath fluid channels 135 are connected to different second sheath fluid introduction portions 134, and the downstream ends of both the two second sheath fluid channels 135 are connected to the main channel 131. In the present embodiment, the two second sheath fluid channels 135 are open only at the top surface of the main channel 131 (see fig. 8B). The openings of the two second sheath fluid channels 135 on the top surface of the main channel 131 are disposed at different positions with a gap therebetween.

The second sheath fluid channel 135 except for the portion merged with the main channel 131 is constituted by the third groove 116 formed in the substrate 110 and a part of the thin film 220 that closes the opening of the third groove 116 (see fig. 2 and 8B).

The junction of the second sheath fluid channel 135 and the main channel 131 is formed by a part of one surface of the substrate 110 (the surface to which the thin film 220 is bonded), a part of the opening of the first groove 112 (the groove constituting the main channel 131), and the bent portion 221 of the thin film 220 (see fig. 2 and 8B). In the present embodiment, the film 220 has two bent portions 221. The two curved portions 221 have a substantially spherical crown shape (see fig. 7A and 8B).

(operation of liquid treatment apparatus)

The liquid treatment apparatus 200 of embodiment 2 can be used in the same manner as the liquid treatment apparatus 100 of embodiment 1.

(Effect)

The liquid treatment apparatus 200 according to embodiment 2 has the same effects as the liquid treatment apparatus 100 according to embodiment 1.

[ embodiment 3]

The liquid treatment apparatus 300 according to embodiment 3 differs from the liquid treatment apparatus 100 according to embodiment 1 only in the configurations of the second sheath fluid introduction part 334 and the second sheath fluid channel 335. The same components as those of the liquid treatment apparatus 100 according to embodiment 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof are omitted.

(Structure of liquid treatment apparatus)

Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a liquid treatment apparatus 300 according to embodiment 3. Fig. 10A is a plan view of the liquid treatment apparatus 300, and fig. 10B is a sectional view taken along line a-a in fig. 10A. Fig. 11A is a sectional view taken along line B-B in fig. 10A, fig. 11B is a sectional view taken along line C-C in fig. 10A, and fig. 11C is a sectional view taken along line D-D in fig. 10A.

As shown in these figures, the liquid treatment apparatus 300 has a substrate 310 and a thin film 120. The substrate 310 has a groove serving as a flow path and a through hole serving as an inlet or an outlet. The thin film 120 is bonded to one surface of the substrate 310 so as to close the openings of the through holes and the grooves formed in the substrate 310. A partial region of the film 120 is formed as a bent portion 121 bent in a direction away from the substrate 110. The groove of the substrate 310 closed by the film 120 serves as a flow path through which the main liquid or the sheath liquid flows. The space in the bending portion 121 also serves as a flow path through which the sheath fluid flows.

In the present embodiment, the liquid treatment apparatus 300 includes the main liquid introduction portion 130, the main channel 131, two first sheath liquid introduction portions 132, two first sheath liquid channels 133, two second sheath liquid introduction portions 334, two second sheath liquid channels 335, and the liquid extraction portion 136.

The two second sheath liquid introduction portions 334 are bottomed recesses into which the sheath liquid is introduced. In the present embodiment, each of the two second sheath fluid introduction portions 334 is formed by the third through hole 115 formed in the substrate 110 and a part of the membrane 120 that closes one opening of the third through hole 115 (see fig. 9). In the present embodiment, an end portion of the bent portion 121 of the film 120 faces one opening portion of the third through hole 115.

The two second sheath fluid channels 335 are channels in which the fluid can move. The upstream ends of the two second sheath fluid channels 335 are connected to different second sheath fluid introduction portions 334, respectively, and the downstream ends of the two second sheath fluid channels 335 are connected to the main channel 131. In the present embodiment, the two second sheath fluid channels 335 are open only at the top surface of the main channel 131 (see fig. 11B). The opening portions of the two second sheath fluid channels 335 at the top surface of the main channel 131 are common opening portions.

In the present embodiment, the second sheath fluid channel 335 is constituted by a part of one surface (surface to which the membrane 120 is bonded) of the substrate 310, a part of an opening of the third through-hole 115 (through-hole constituting the second sheath fluid introduction portion 334), a part of an opening of the first groove 112 (groove constituting the main channel 131), and the bent portion 121 of the membrane 120 (see fig. 9 and 11B). Therefore, in the present embodiment, the sheath liquid introduced into the second sheath liquid introduction portion 334 passes through the space between the substrate 310 and the bending portion 121, and is introduced into the main channel 131 from the top surface side of the main channel 131.

(operation of liquid treatment apparatus)

The liquid treatment apparatus 300 of embodiment 3 can be used in the same procedure as the liquid treatment apparatus 100 of embodiment 1.

(Effect)

The liquid treatment apparatus 300 according to embodiment 3 has the same effects as the liquid treatment apparatus 100 according to embodiment 1.

[ embodiment 4]

(Structure of liquid treatment apparatus)

Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a liquid treatment apparatus 400 according to embodiment 4. Fig. 13 is an exploded perspective view of the liquid treatment apparatus 400. Fig. 14A is a plan view of the liquid treatment apparatus 400, and fig. 14B is a sectional view taken along line a-a in fig. 14A. Fig. 15A is a sectional view taken along line B-B in fig. 14A, fig. 15B is a sectional view taken along line C-C in fig. 14A, and fig. 15C is a sectional view taken along line D-D in fig. 14A.

As shown in these figures, the liquid treatment apparatus 400 includes a substrate 410, a first film 420, and a second film 423. A slit serving as a flow path and a through hole serving as an inlet or an outlet are formed in the substrate 410. The first thin film 420 is bonded to one surface of the substrate 410 so as to close the opening of the slit or the through hole formed in the substrate 410. A partial region of the first film 420 is shaped as a first bending part 421 bent in a direction away from the substrate 410. The second film 423 is joined to the other surface of the substrate 410 so as to close the openings of the slits and the through holes formed in the substrate 410. A partial region of the second film 423 is formed as a second bending part 424 bending in a direction away from the substrate 410. The slit of the substrate 410 closed by the first film 420 and the second film 423 serves as a flow path through which the main liquid flows. The space in the first bend 421 and the space in the second bend 424 form channels through which the sheath fluid flows.

The thickness of the substrate 410 is not particularly limited. The thickness of the substrate 410 is, for example, 1mm or more and 10mm or less. In addition, the material of the substrate 410 is not particularly limited. For example, the material of the substrate 410 may be appropriately selected from known resins and glasses. The material of the substrate 410 includes, for example: polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate, polymethyl methacrylate, polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, polyether, polyethylene, polystyrene, cycloolefin resins, silicone resins, and elastomers.

The thickness of the first film 420 and the second film 423 is not particularly limited as long as the required strength can be secured. The thickness of the first film 420 and the second film 423 is, for example, 30 μm or more and 300 μm or less. The material of the first film 420 and the second film 423 is not particularly limited as long as the material can mold the first bent portion 421 or the second bent portion 424. For example, the material of the first film 420 and the second film 423 may be appropriately selected from known resins. The materials of the first film 420 and the second film 423 include, for example: polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate, polymethyl methacrylate, polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, polyether, polyethylene, polystyrene, cycloolefin resins, silicone resins, and elastomers. In the case of observing the main liquid flowing in the flow path, it is preferable that at least one of the first film 420 and the second film 423 be made of a transparent material. In addition, when observing fluorescence of the main liquid flowing through the flow path, it is preferable that at least one of the first film 420 and the second film 423 be a material that transmits excitation light and fluorescence and has less autofluorescence. The first film 420 and the second film 423 are joined to the substrate 410 by, for example, heat fusion, laser welding, an adhesive, or the like.

In the present embodiment, the liquid treatment apparatus 400 includes a main liquid introduction portion 430, a main channel 431, two first sheath liquid introduction portions 432, two first sheath liquid channels 433, two second sheath liquid introduction portions 434, two second sheath liquid channels 435, and a liquid extraction portion 436.

The main liquid introduction portion 430 is a recessed portion with a bottom into which the main liquid is introduced. In the present embodiment, the main liquid introduction portion 430 is constituted by the first through hole 411 formed in the substrate 410, the first through hole 425 formed in the second film 423, and a part of the first film 420 that closes one opening of the first through hole 411 (see fig. 13). The shape and size of the first through hole 411 of the substrate 410 are not particularly limited and may be appropriately set according to the purpose. The first through hole 411 of the substrate 410 has, for example, a substantially cylindrical shape. The diameter of the first through hole 411 of the substrate 410 is, for example, about 2 mm.

The main flow path 431 is a flow path in which liquid can move. An upstream end of the main channel 431 is connected to the main liquid introducing portion 430, and a downstream end of the main channel 431 is connected to the liquid extracting portion 436. As will be described later, the first sheath fluid channel 433 and the second sheath fluid channel 435 are connected to the main channel 431 at different positions of the main channel 431. In the present embodiment, the main liquid is introduced from the main liquid introduction portion 430 into the main channel 431, and the sheath liquid is introduced from the junction of the main channel 431 and the first sheath liquid channel 433 and the junction of the main channel 431 and the second sheath liquid channel 435. Therefore, the main liquid flows through the main channel 431 between the main liquid introduction portion 430 and the joint portion between the main channel 431 and the first sheath liquid channel 433, and the main liquid and the sheath liquid flow through the main channel 431 between the joint portion between the main channel 431 and the first sheath liquid channel 433 and the liquid extraction portion 436. As will be described later, the main liquid and the sheath liquid flow through the main channel 431 in a sheath flow state in which the main liquid is surrounded by the sheath liquid between the liquid extraction section 436 and the junction of the main channel 431 and the second sheath liquid channel 435.

The main flow path 431 is constituted by a slit (elongated through hole) 412 formed in the substrate 410, a part of the first film 420 that closes one opening of the slit 412, and a part of the second film 423 that closes the other opening of the slit 412 (see fig. 13). The cross-sectional area and cross-sectional shape of the slit 412 are not particularly limited as long as they are areas and shapes that can form a sheath flow in the main channel 431 in which the main liquid is surrounded by the sheath liquid. In the present specification, the "cross section of the channel or the slit" refers to a cross section of the channel or the slit perpendicular to the direction in which the liquid flows. The cross-sectional shape of the slit 412 is, for example, a substantially rectangular shape having a length (width and depth) of one side of several tens μm or so. The cross-sectional area of the slit 412 may or may not be constant in the flow direction of the liquid. In the present embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the slit 412 is constant.

The two first sheath liquid introduction portions 432 and the two second sheath liquid introduction portions 434 are bottomed recesses into which the sheath liquid is introduced. In the present embodiment, the two first sheath liquid introduction portions 432 are respectively constituted by the second through hole 413 formed in the substrate 410, the second through hole 426 formed in the second film 423, and a part of the first film 420 that closes one opening of the second through hole 413 (see fig. 13). The two second sheath liquid introduction portions 434 are formed by the third through-hole 415 formed in the substrate 410, the third through-hole 422 formed in the first thin film 420, and a part of the second thin film 423 for closing one opening of the third through-hole 415 (see fig. 13). The shapes and sizes of the second through hole 413 and the third through hole 415 of the substrate 410 are not particularly limited, and may be appropriately set according to the purpose. The second through hole 413 and the third through hole 415 of the substrate 410 have, for example, a substantially cylindrical shape. The diameters of the second through hole 413 and the third through hole 415 of the substrate 410 are, for example, about 2 mm.

The two first sheath fluid channels 433 are channels in which a fluid can move. The upstream ends of the two first sheath liquid channels 433 are connected to different first sheath liquid introduction portions 432, respectively, and the downstream ends of both the two first sheath liquid channels 433 are connected to the main channel 431. The sheath liquid introduced into the first sheath liquid introduction part 432 flows through the first sheath liquid channel 433. The first sheath fluid channel 433 is open at least to the bottom surface of the main channel 431. In the present embodiment, the "bottom surface of the channel" refers to the surface on the first film 420 side (the surface formed by the first film 420) of the inner surface of the channel. In the present embodiment, the two first sheath fluid channels 433 are open only to the bottom surface of the main channel 431 (see fig. 13 and 15A). The openings of the two first sheath fluid channels 433 at the bottom surface of the main channel 431 are common openings.

In the present embodiment, the two first sheath liquid channels 433 are constituted by a part of one surface (the surface to which the first film 420 is bonded) of the substrate 410, a part of the opening of the second through hole 413 (the through hole constituting the first sheath liquid introduction portion 432), a part of the opening of the slit 412 (the slit constituting the main channel 431), and the first bending portion 421 of the first film 420 (see fig. 13 and 15A). As described above, the first bending portion 421 is a portion that is provided in the first film 420 and is bent (recessed) in a direction away from the substrate 410. The first bent portion 421 faces the surface of the substrate 410 on which no groove is formed, but is not joined to the substrate 410. Therefore, the sheath liquid introduced into the first sheath liquid introduction portion 432 passes through the space between the substrate 410 and the first bending portion 421, and is introduced into the main channel 431 from the bottom surface side of the main channel 431. The shape and size of the first bending portion 421 are not particularly limited as long as an appropriate amount of sheath fluid for forming a sheath flow in the main channel 431 can be introduced. In the present embodiment, the first bending portion 421 has a substantially elliptical shape (a shape formed by two parallel lines having the same length and two semicircles) in a plan view (see fig. 14A). The cross-sectional shape of the first curved portion 421 in the short axis direction is a substantially circular arc shape (see fig. 14B).

The two second sheath fluid flow paths 435 are flow paths in which the liquid can move. The upstream ends of the two second sheath liquid channels 435 are connected to different second sheath liquid introduction portions 434, respectively, and the downstream ends of the two second sheath liquid channels 435 are connected to the main channel 431. The sheath liquid introduced into the second sheath liquid introduction part 434 flows through the second sheath liquid channel 435. The second sheath fluid channel 435 is open at least at the top surface of the main channel 431. In the present embodiment, the "top surface of the flow channel" refers to a surface on the second film 423 side (a surface formed by the second film 423) of the inner surface of the flow channel. In the present embodiment, the two second sheath fluid channels 435 are open only at the top surface of the main channel 431 (see fig. 13 and 15B). The opening portions of the two second sheath fluid channels 435 at the top surface of the main channel 431 are common opening portions.

In the present embodiment, the two second sheath fluid channels 435 are formed by a part of the other surface of the substrate 410 (the surface to which the second thin film 423 is bonded), a part of the opening of the third through hole 415 (the through hole constituting the second sheath fluid introduction part 434), a part of the opening of the slit 412 (the slit constituting the main channel 431), and the second bent part 424 of the second thin film 423 (see fig. 13 and 15A). As described above, the second bent portion 424 is a portion that is provided in the second film 423 and is bent (recessed) in a direction away from the substrate 410. The second bent portion 424 faces the surface of the substrate 410 on which no groove is formed, but is not joined to the substrate 410. Therefore, the sheath liquid introduced into the second sheath liquid introduction portion 434 passes through the space between the substrate 410 and the second bending portion 424, and is introduced into the main channel 431 from the top surface side of the main channel 431. The shape and size of the second bending portion 424 are not particularly limited as long as an appropriate amount of sheath fluid for forming a sheath flow in the main channel 431 can be introduced. In the present embodiment, the second bend portion 424 has a substantially elliptical shape (a shape formed by two parallel lines having the same length and two semicircles) in a plan view (see fig. 14A). The cross-sectional shape of the first curved portion 421 in the short axis direction is a substantially circular arc shape (see fig. 14B).

In the present embodiment, in the main channel 431, the merging portion of the two first sheath liquid channels 433 is located upstream of the merging portion of the two second sheath liquid channels 435, but the position of the merging portion is not limited to this. For example, the junction of the two second sheath fluid channels 435 may be located upstream of the junction of the two first sheath fluid channels 433. Further, the junction of the two first sheath liquid channels 433 and the junction of the two second sheath liquid channels 435 may be opposed to each other.

The liquid extraction section 436 is a bottomed recess for extracting the main liquid and the sheath liquid flowing through the main channel 431 in the sheath flow state. In the present embodiment, the liquid extraction portion 436 is formed of a fourth through hole 417 formed in the substrate 410, a fourth through hole 427 formed in the second film 423, and a part of the first film 420 that closes one opening of the fourth through hole 417 (see fig. 13). The shape and size of the fourth through hole 417 of the substrate 410 are not particularly limited and may be appropriately set according to the purpose. The fourth through hole 417 of the substrate 410 has a substantially cylindrical shape, for example. The diameter of the fourth through hole 417 of the substrate 410 is, for example, about 2 mm.

(operation of liquid treatment apparatus)

Next, the operation (liquid processing method) of the liquid processing apparatus 400 will be described with reference to fig. 16A to 16C.

The main liquid is introduced into the main liquid introduction portion 430, and the sheath liquid is introduced into the two first sheath liquid introduction portions 432 and the two second sheath liquid introduction portions 434. In this state, the liquid take-out section 436 is depressurized, or the main liquid introduction section 430, the two first sheath liquid introduction sections 432, and the two second sheath liquid introduction sections 434 are pressurized. Thereby, the main liquid in the main liquid introduction portion 430 flows through the main flow path 431 to the liquid extraction portion 436. The sheath liquid in the first sheath liquid introduction portion 432 flows through the first sheath liquid channel 433 to the main channel 431, and the sheath liquid in the second sheath liquid introduction portion 434 flows through the second sheath liquid channel 435 to the main channel 431.

Fig. 16A is a diagram showing the main liquid 140 and the sheath liquid 141 at the junction of the main channel 431 and the two first sheath liquid channels 433 (corresponding to a partially enlarged view of the vicinity of the main channel 431 in fig. 15A). As shown in the drawing, since the two first sheath liquid channels 433 are open at the bottom surface of the main channel 431, the sheath liquid 141 flowing from the two first sheath liquid channels 433 travels to the side and below of the main liquid 140 in the main channel 431 but does not travel to the upper side at the point of confluence of the main channel 431 and the two first sheath liquid channels 433. Since the cross-sectional shape of the first bending portion 421 in the short axis direction is a substantially circular arc shape (see fig. 14B), the sheath liquid 141 slightly spreads toward the first bending portion 421 at the junction of the main flow path 431 and the two first sheath liquid flow paths 433, and the sheath liquid 141 can travel not only below the main liquid 140 but also to the side of the main liquid 140. In the main channel 431, the main liquid 140 and the sheath liquid 141 flow in a laminar state.

Fig. 16B is a diagram showing the main liquid 140 and the sheath liquid 141 at a junction of the main channel 431 and the two second sheath liquid channels 435 (corresponding to a partially enlarged view of the vicinity of the main channel 431 in fig. 15B). As shown in the drawing, the two second sheath liquid channels 435 are open at the top surface of the main channel 431, and therefore, at the point of intersection of the main channel 431 and the two second sheath liquid channels 435, the sheath liquid 141 flowing from the two second sheath liquid channels 435 travels to the side and above the main liquid 140 in the main channel 431. Since the cross-sectional shape of the second bend 424 in the short axis direction is a substantially circular arc shape (see fig. 14B), the sheath liquid 141 slightly spreads toward the second bend 424 side at the junction of the main flow path 431 and the two second sheath liquid flow paths 435, and the sheath liquid 141 can travel not only above the main liquid 140 but also to the side of the main liquid 140. In the main channel 431, the sheath liquid 141 flowing from the two second sheath liquid channels 435 also flows in a laminar state.

Fig. 16C is a diagram showing the main liquid 140 and the sheath liquid 141 in the main channel 431 downstream of the junction of the main channel 431 and the two second sheath liquid channels 435 (corresponding to a partially enlarged view of the vicinity of the main channel 431 in fig. 15C). As described above, the sheath liquid 141 flowing from the two first sheath liquid channels 433 travels to the side and below of the main liquid 140 in the main channel 431 (see fig. 16A), and the sheath liquid 141 flowing from the two second sheath liquid channels 435 travels to the side and above of the main liquid 140 in the main channel 431 (see fig. 16B). As a result, as shown in fig. 16C, a sheath flow in which the main liquid 140 is surrounded by the sheath liquid 141 is formed.

As shown in fig. 16C, main liquid 140 may be observed or fluorescence may be observed in a state where a sheath flow is formed in main flow path 431. The main liquid 140 flows in a stable state surrounded by the sheath liquid 141 without contacting the inner wall of the main channel 431, and therefore, the main liquid 140 can be stably observed.

(Effect)

The liquid treatment apparatus 400 according to embodiment 4 has the same effects as the liquid treatment apparatus 100 according to embodiment 1.

Industrial applicability

The liquid processing apparatus of the present invention is useful for various applications such as clinical examination, food examination, and environmental examination.