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An electro-osmotic micro-pump based on monolithic silica for micro-flow analyses and electro-sprays
Zilin Chen1, Ping Wang, Hsueh-Chia Chang
1Center for Microfluidics and Medical Diagnostics, Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, 182 Fitzpatrick Hall, Notre Dame, IN 46556-5637, USA. zchen@nd.edu
Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry
|April 2, 2005
Summary
A novel electro-osmotic micro-pump achieves high pressure for flow-injection analysis (FIA) systems. This sol-gel fabricated device offers precise fluid control and acts as an electro-spray interface.
Area of Science:
- Microfluidics
- Analytical Chemistry
- Materials Science
Background:
- Flow-injection analysis (FIA) systems require precise fluid control.
- Traditional micro-pumps face limitations in pressure generation and integration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a high-pressure electro-osmotic micro-pump for micro FIA systems.
- To investigate the performance and capabilities of a sol-gel fabricated micro-pump.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a monolithic silica micro-pump using a sol-gel process.
- Integration of the micro-pump with micro-injector and micro-sensor components.
- Characterization of pump-pressure performance under varying DC electric fields.
Main Results:
- The micro-pump achieved a maximum pressure of 0.4 MPa at 0.4 microL/min with 6 kV.
- Precise flow rate control was demonstrated from 200 nL/min to 2.5 microL/min.
- Negligible current (<100 microA) prevented bubble generation and ion contamination.
Conclusions:
- The sol-gel fabricated electro-osmotic micro-pump is a viable high-pressure fluid-driving unit for micro FIA.
- The device offers precise flow control and potential for electro-spray applications.
- The novel Nafion joint enhances pressure build-up and system stability.