Electrowetting-Based Valving and Pumping Systems

摘要

The present teachings relate to microfluidic valves and pumping systems, which may be suitable for controlling and facilitating liquid flow. Electrodes are disposed proximately to volumes containing a liquid. The liquid flow can be facilitated by electrowetting forces. Processes for controlling the flow of liquids, as well as for pumping liquids, are also disclosed.

主权项

1. A valving system comprising:
a channel fluidly coupled to a first reservoir and a second reservoir; a volume in fluid communication with said channel, wherein said volume is adapted to contain a fluid chosen from a gas bubble and a liquid droplet; a first electrode proximate to said volume; a second electrode proximate to said channel, wherein said first and second electrodes are proximate to each other; and a power source electrically coupled to each electrode, the power source being configured to provide an electrical potential difference at the interface between the electrode and a liquid droplet sufficient to provide a net force to move said droplet.