Polarization behavior of polystyrene particles under direct current and low-frequency (<1 kHz) electric fields in dielectrophoretic systems.

The relative polarization behavior of micron and submicron polystyrene particles was investigated under direct current and very low frequency (<1 kHz) alternating current electric fields. Relative polarization of particles with respect to the suspending medium is expressed in terms of the Clausius-Mossotti factor, a parameter of crucial importance in dielectrophoretic-based operations. Particle relative polarization was studied by employing insulator-based dielectrophoretic (iDEP) devices.