Abstract: Beads with functionalized material applied to them are exposed to an acoustic field to trap, retain or pass the beads. The beads may include or be free of ferro magnetic material. The beads may be biocompatible or biodegradable for a host. The size of the beads may vary over a range, and/or be heterogenous or homogenous. The composition of the beads may include high, neutral or low acoustic contrast material. The chemistry of the functionalized material may be compatible with existing processes. The acoustic field may be generated, for example, in an acoustic angled wave device or in an acoustic fluidized bed.

Abstract: Microparticles and nanoparticles made of various materials that are used in various configurations are disclosed. The particles may be perfluorocarbon droplets with a lipid coating. The particles may be used in an acoustic cell selection process. The droplets are highly acoustically responsive and can be retained against fluid flow by an acoustic field. Such particles can be used in the separation, segregation, differentiation, modification or filtration of a system.

Abstract: An acoustic wave with an acoustic field with a large number of multi-directional gradients can provide an edge effect that be used to form an interface region relative to the acoustic wave. The interface region can block material with certain characteristics related to the nature of the interface region. Other material that is less influenced by the acoustic properties of the interface region can pass through the acoustic wave. This technique permits separation of materials using the edge effect and interface region.

Abstract: Beads with functionalized material applied to them are exposed to an acoustic field to trap, retain or pass the beads. The beads may include or be free of ferro magnetic material. The beads may be biocompatible or biodegradable for a host. The size of the beads may vary over a range, and/or be heterogenous or homogenous. The composition of the beads may include high, neutral or low acoustic contrast material. The chemistry of the functionalized material may be compatible with existing processes. The acoustic field may be generated, for example, in an acoustic angled wave device or in an acoustic fluidized bed.