Microautosamplers for discrete sample injection and dispensation

Area of Science:

• Microfluidics
• Biosensing
• MEMS technology

Background:

• Microfluidic systems are crucial for continuous biosample reaction and analysis.
• Traditional microfluidic setups require external, large-scale autosamplers for sample injection.
• Existing methods face limitations in integration and miniaturization for comprehensive analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel microelectromechanical system (MEMS)-based autosampler for microfluidic applications.
• To enable discrete injection and dispensation of variable sample volumes within a microfluidic chip.
• To facilitate continuous monitoring and analysis of multiple biosamples with enhanced integration.

Main Methods:

• Development of a MEMS-based microautosampler.
• Utilizing electroosmotic focusing and switching for precise sample injection.
• Implementing an injection-and-washing scheme to prevent cross-contamination.
• Verification using fluorescence dye imaging.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated discrete injection and dispensation of variable sample volumes.
• Achieved precise sample injection into specified outlet ports via electroosmotic control.
• Successfully prevented cross-contamination between sequential samples.
• Verified device performance using fluorescence dye imaging.

Conclusions:

• The developed microautosampler is compact, cost-effective, and easily integrated with microfluidic devices.
• This technology supports continuous monitoring and analysis of bioreactions.
• The microautosampler shows promise for realizing the micrototal analysis system (μ-TAS).