Applying an external electric field over a polarizable electrode or object within microchannels can induce an electric double layer (EDL) around channel walls and create induced-charge electrokinetics (ICEK) within channels. The primary consequence of the induced charge is the generation of micro-vortices around the polarizable electrode or object, presenting great potential for various microfluidic applications. This review presents the advances in theoretical, numerical and experimental studies on the physics and applications of ICEK within microfluidics. In particular, the characteristics and performance of ICEK-based microfluidic components in active micromixers, micropumps, and microvalves are critically reviewed, followed by discussing the applications of ICEK in electrophoresis and particle/cell manipulation within microfluidics. Furthermore, the opportunities and challenges of ICEK-based microfluidic devices are highlighted. This work facilitates recognizing deliverable ICEK-based microfluidic technologies with unprecedented functionality for the next generation of biomedical applications with predictable manufacturability and functionality.

中文翻译：

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微流体中的诱导电荷电动 (ICEK)：最新进展综述

在微通道内的可极化电极或物体上施加外部电场可以在通道壁周围产生双电层 (EDL) 并在通道内产生感应电荷电动势 (ICEK)。感应电荷的主要后果是在可极化电极或物体周围产生微涡流，为各种微流体应用提供巨大潜力。本综述介绍了 ICEK 在微流体中的物理和应用的理论、数值和实验研究进展。特别是，批判性地审查了基于 ICEK 的微流体组件在有源微混合器、微泵和微阀中的特性和性能，然后讨论了 ICEK 在微流体中的电泳和粒子/细胞操作中的应用。此外，强调了基于 ICEK 的微流体设备的机遇和挑战。这项工作有助于识别可交付的基于 ICEK 的微流体技术，该技术具有前所未有的功能，可用于具有可预测的可制造性和功能性的下一代生物医学应用。