A superconductive electromagnetic pump without any mechanical moving parts

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Cardiovascular Devices
• Electromagnetism

Background:

• Mechanical reliability is a key challenge for artificial heart devices.
• Existing artificial hearts often suffer from mechanical wear and tear due to moving parts.
• Superconductive electromagnetic pumps offer a potential solution by eliminating mechanical components.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a superconductive electromagnetic pump for artificial heart applications.
• To assess the feasibility of using electromagnetic principles for blood propulsion.
• To investigate potential blood damage caused by the electromagnetic pump.

Main Methods:

• A superconductive electromagnetic pump with concentric, cone-shaped cylinders acting as electrodes was designed.
• The device was tested in a 7 Tesla superconductive magnetic field.
• Blood damage was assessed using porcine blood and comparing hematologic variations with and without current flow.

Main Results:

• The pump achieved a saline flow rate of approximately 1 L/min at 5 V and 1 A.
• Blood conductivity was found to be similar to saline, contrary to traditional assumptions.
• Testing indicated no significant blood damage from the electric current passing through the blood.

Conclusions:

• The superconductive electromagnetic pump is a viable, rotorless alternative for artificial hearts.
• Further development with stronger magnetic fields (e.g., 20 Tesla) could enhance performance.
• The technology demonstrates potential for improved long-term reliability in cardiac replacement devices.