MIXING OF FLUIDS IN FLUIDIC SYSTEMS

摘要

Fluidic devices and methods associated with mixing of fluids in fluidic devices are provided. In some embodiments, a method may involve the mixing of two or more fluids in a channel segment of a fluidic device. The fluids may be in the form of, for example, at least first, second and third fluid plugs, composed of first, second, and third fluids, respectively. The second fluid may be immiscible with the first and third fluids. In certain embodiments, the fluid plugs may be flowed in series in the channel segment, e.g., in linear order, causing the first and third fluids to mix without the use of active components such as mixers. The mixing of fluids in a channel segment as described herein may allow for improved performance and simplification in the design and operations of fluidic devices that rely on mixing of fluids.

主权项

1. A method, comprising:
flowing in a channel a series of fluid plugs comprising a first fluid plug comprising a first fluid, a second fluid plug comprising a second fluid, and a third fluid plug comprising a third fluid, wherein the first fluid plug has a first volume, wherein the second fluid plug is positioned between the first and third fluid plugs, and wherein the second fluid is immiscible with each of the first and third fluids, wherein prior to the flowing step, the channel comprises a reagent that is substantially dry, the method comprising contacting the first and/or third fluid with the reagent; reducing the first volume of the first fluid plug by at least 50%; and combining at least a portion of the first fluid into the third fluid plug so as to mix at least portions of the first and third fluids.