Proximal degas driven microfluidic actuation
US9737888B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 20, 2015 |
| Grant date | Aug 22, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 20, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB01L2400/0694
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
An apparatus with a self-contained, tunable, microfluidic pumping system that utilizes the high air permeability of the matrix material to actuate fluid flow in a network of fluidic microchannels and microstructures is provided. The pumping relies upon partial evacuation of degas/vacuum channels that are located next to the fluid channels to degas air from the fluid channels or structures producing a reduction of pressure in the fluidic channel leading to the flow of fluid from an inlet at atmospheric pressure through the device. The solution is isolated from the pumping apparatus since the liquid does not pass through the diffusion barriers. The apparatus and method can also provide bubble-free microfluidic pumping, without any auxiliary equipment or device pre-treatment, and can fill dead-end channels and chambers, providing a powerful liquid handling tool for a broad range of applications.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.