Our latest research, published in Nature Photonics, reveals a powerful new way to control fluids and particles using only light and heat.

By projecting structured light patterns into a microfluidic chamber, we generate localized heating that forms 3D “thermal barriers” within the liquid. These barriers act like invisible walls, steering, splitting, merging, or trapping particles which are functions usually achieved with fixed physical structures.

The real advantage? Reconfigurability. With a simple change in the light pattern, the barriers can be rearranged in under 100 milliseconds. This speed and flexibility make it possible to adapt experiments on the fly, perform size-based particle sorting, or create dynamic “lab-on-a-chip” environments without moving parts.

We believe this approach could transform compact analytical devices for diagnostics, chemical synthesis, and biological studies—unlocking new possibilities for programmable, feedback-controlled microfluidics.

📄 Read the full article here: Nature Photonics