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Updated: Jun 28, 2026

Microfluidic Chips Controlled with Elastomeric Microvalve Arrays
18:11

Microfluidic Chips Controlled with Elastomeric Microvalve Arrays

Published on: October 1, 2007

Microfluidic chips controlled with elastomeric microvalve arrays.

Nianzhen Li1, Chris Sip, Albert Folch

  • 1Dept. of Bioengineering, University of Washington, WA, USA. nianzhen@u.washington.edu

Journal of Visualized Experiments : Jove
|November 8, 2008
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

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We developed portable microfluidic chips with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microvalves for precise fluid control. These devices enable low-cost diagnostics and advanced cell studies without external power sources.

Area of Science:

  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Microfluidics
  • Materials Science

Background:

  • Miniaturized microfluidic systems are crucial for point-of-care diagnostics and high-throughput assays.
  • Robust flow control and precise fluid volumes are essential for microfluidic applications.
  • Existing systems often require external power sources, limiting portability.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop novel microfluidic chips with self-contained, energy-independent microvalves.
  • To enable precise control over sub-nanoliter fluid volumes for complex assays.
  • To demonstrate the utility of these chips in sample mixing and cell culture perfusion.

Main Methods:

  • Fabrication of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microfluidic chips using replica molding and spin coating.

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Microfluidic Chips Controlled with Elastomeric Microvalve Arrays
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Published on: October 1, 2007

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  • Integration of elastomeric microvalve arrays within a three-layer chip design (fluidic, control, membrane).
  • Actuation of microvalves using negative pressure, automated via computer-controlled solenoid valves.

    • Main Results:

    • Developed microfluidic chips with deep (up to 1 mm) channels and vertical sidewalls for feature precision.
    • Demonstrated passive closure of microvalves, requiring only negative pressure for opening, enhancing portability.
    • Successfully implemented chips for precise sub-nanoliter liquid storage, mixing, and automated cell culture perfusion.

    Conclusions:

    • PDMS microvalve-based microfluidic chips offer a portable and energy-independent solution for precise fluid handling.
    • The fabricated devices are simple to control and biocompatible, suitable for diverse biomedical applications.
    • These microfluidic systems hold significant potential for advancing miniaturized diagnostics and cell biology research.