Method for preparing small volume reaction containers

摘要

Engineered reaction containers that can be physically and chemically defined to control the flux of molecules of different sizes and charge are disclosed. Methods for constructing small volume reaction containers through a combination of etching and deposition are also disclosed. The methods allow for the fabrication of multiple devices that possess features on multiple length scales, specifically small volume containers with controlled porosity on the nanoscale.

主权项

1. A structure for controlling transport of a material, the structure comprising:
a side wall and an end wall at least partially defining a first volume and a second volume, the side wall separating the first volume and the second volume, the side wall including a plurality of pores extending from a first surface facing the first volume to a second surface facing the second volume thereby providing a transport path between the first volume and the second volume, the pores having a limiting aperture in the range of 1 to 500 nanometers, the pores having a length of 5000 micrometers or less, wherein the end wall and the side wall are monolithic being created by etching a substrate; and a material located within the first volume or within the second volume, the material having a physical or chemical property such that the material is selectively restricted by the pores from passing from the first volume to the second volume or from passing from the second volume to the first volume; and means for controlling transport of the material both into and out of the first volume, wherein the substrate comprises a substrate material, and wherein the end wall and the side wall comprise the substrate material.