LIQUID DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM

摘要

The liquid distribution system of the invention will be formed of at least three plates, a feedthrough plate (300), a distribution substrate (310) and a reaction cell plate (320). The feedthrough plate (300) is typically bonded to the distribution substrate (310). The reaction cell plate (320) is typically removably fitted to the underside of the distribution substrate (310), or the underside of intermediate plate interposed between the distribution substrate (310) and the reaction cell plate (320). The capillary barriers (370) and sluices created by the second openings (362) or third openings act as a combined valve and pump. The capillary barriers (370) prevent flow to the reaction cell, which flow would be favored by capillary forces, until the first pumps (360) or second pumps (361) provide the extra pressure needed to overcome the capillary barriers (370). Narrowing the sluices can increase the capillary forces favoring flow, thereby reducing the amount of added pressure needed to overcome the capillary barriers (370). The use of the capillary barriers (370) allows flow control to be governed by the first pumps (360) or second pumps (361), which are typically controlled by controller.