Surface acoustic wave based microfluidic devices for biological applications

Over the past decade, surface acoustic wave (SAW) devices have been widely used in the field of biological detection, including as actuators for sample pretreatment processes and as biosensors for the qualitative or quantitative detection of various biological objectives, with favorable biocompatibility, contactless operation, and noninvasive features. In this review work, we choose types of SAWs as the thread to run through various implements. The theoretical basis is firstly explained to provide the physical principles governing the design and operation of SAW in the above fields. Also, the notable set-ups and key features in each category are summarized and discussed in detail, allowing rapid access to specific advancements for researchers in the field. Finally, the perspectives on the future trend in terms of opportunities and challenges of SAW-based detection devices are offered. This review chooses types of SAWs as the thread to run through various implements, and the notable set-ups and key features in each category are summarized and discussed in detail.