The controlled, contactless motion of ferromagnetic nanoparticles is becoming increasingly important in many fields of research and applications. These include life sciences, biomedicine, laboratory processes and micro- and nanorobotics. Wherever smallest particles need to be moved precisely and reproducibly without contact, new possibilities open up.

However, traditional mechanical manipulation quickly reaches its limits at the micro- and nanoscale. Dominant surface forces, limited installation space for actuators and the challenging task of reproducibly positioning the smallest objects make precise processes difficult. Contactless methods are therefore of great interest, especially for handling sensitive samples or controlling numerous particles simultaneously.

This is where our 2D and 3D manipulators for magnetizable nanoparticles as well as micro- and macro-magnetic objects come into play. The systems enable precise and reproducible control of motion and positioning sequences in two or three dimensions—contactlessly and based on precisely generated magnetic fields and field gradients.

The technical principle is clear and powerful. The system generates superimposed magnetic fields and field gradients. This is achieved by using Halbach dipole and quadrupole arrangements of ring-shaped magnetic subsystems. The amplitude and direction of the magnetic field gradients can be adjusted precisely. Magnetized particles can thus be moved and positioned with precision in a controlled manner. This movement can be visualized, observed and documented using a digital microscope. The included software provides real-time control.

For research and development, this means much more than just motion control. The technology lays the groundwork for reproducible experiments, automatable workflows, and new experimental approaches. It enables researchers to precisely define particle movements, fine-tune experimental conditions and implement processes without physical contact.

This opens up a wide range of applications, including cell manipulation, cell sorting, DNA extraction in lab-on-a-chip systems, rapid biosensing, targeted cell separation, 3D cell culture and micro- and nanorobotics applications. Magnetic particle manipulation also has great potential for advancing laboratory and diagnostic processes.

The system creates new opportunities for universities, research institutions and technology-oriented companies. It helps them address new research questions, perform more precise experiments and develop innovative products and processes.

You can find out more about the system and its applications on our landing page: particlemover.com

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