Alchema Research is AcoustoFab’s research platform for containerless sample handling. It uses acoustic levitation to hold and manipulate low-volume liquids and fragile solids in free space. Researchers can dispense, hold, move, merge, mix, and deposit samples using programmable workflows. The platform is designed for exploratory research in areas such as reaction studies, assay development, real-time analytics, formulation research, 3D cell culture, and proteomics-adjacent workflows where reducing surface contact and sample loss can be valuable.

TinyLev is an open source, low-cost acoustic levitator design that made single-trap levitation more accessible to researchers and educators. It played an important role in democratising acoustic levitation. Many researchers have used TinyLev-like or custom-built systems to study droplets, particles, evaporation, crystallisation, reaction kinetics, and biological samples. AcoustoFab builds on that research culture but serves a different need. Our products are designed to move from demonstration towards turnkey acoustic automation: calibrated hardware, workflow software, scripting tools, integration interfaces, and product support.

Yes. WaveSort is designed for high-speed sorting environments, but achievable throughput depends on the object type, object spacing, belt speed, vision system, number of modules, and sorting logic. The platform supports high acoustic update rates and modular tiling, meaning multiple arrays can be combined across a conveyor width or configured for different machine geometries. For industrial applications, we work with partners to validate throughput, purity, yield, latency, and mechanical integration under realistic operating conditions.

In small-volume biological workflows, valuable material can be lost to tube walls, pipette tips, plates, or other surfaces. Proteins and other biomolecules may adsorb, denature, or behave differently when confined by a container. Containerless acoustic handling reduces contact with solid surfaces. This can help preserve scarce samples, reduce dead volume, and create cleaner experimental conditions for sensitive analytical workflows. The value is application-specific. AcoustoFab works with researchers to identify where wall-less handling can improve recovery, reproducibility, or access to new experimental conditions.

Yes. Both WaveSort and Alchema Research platforms are Software-Defined. We provide Python/C++ APIs and scripting tools to automate 3D paths and integrate vision-feedback loops into existing workflows.

AcoustoFab systems use ultrasound above the normal range of human hearing, typically around 40 kHz. However, ultrasonic systems can still generate high sound pressure levels and should be treated as specialist equipment. Users should therefore follow the product documentation, avoid placing ears close to the active array or working volume, and use appropriate PPE and operating procedures where required. Research and early-access systems may also have specific intended-use and certification limitations.

It depends on the application. Some capabilities are ready for research and early partner evaluation today. Others require application-specific validation, especially where throughput, regulatory requirements, sample compatibility, or industrial uptime are critical. AcoustoFab’s role is to help partners move from proof of concept to practical deployment. We do this through product platforms, pilot programmes, co-development, and OEM integration.