Magnetocaloric pump for microfluidic applications

摘要

A microfluidic magnetocaloric pump. The magnetic and thermal properties of a ferrofluid such as MnZnFe₂O₄ nanoparticles in an oil- or water-based medium are allowed to interact with a magnetic field that is partially coincident with a thermal gradient. As the ferrofluid heats, it loses its attraction to the magnetic field and is displaced by cooler fluid. The micropump produces fluid propulsion with no moving mechanical parts while requiring only 35 mW power and operation at a temperature of only 40-80° C.