PROXIMAL DEGAS DRIVEN MICROFLUIDIC ACTUATION

摘要

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.

主权项

1. A microfluidic apparatus, comprising:
(a) a gas permeable matrix; (b) at least one network of interconnected fluidic structures formed in the matrix with at least one input fluidic channel; (c) at least one network of degas microchannels located in proximity to said network of fluidic structures formed in the matrix; and (d) means for evacuating the degas microchannel network; wherein gases located in the network of fluidic structures diffuse into said evacuated degas channels creating a negative pressure and movement of fluid in the input fluidic channels and fluidic structures.