Moving Fluids in Microfluidics Without External Valves and Pumps:
On-Chip Membrane Valve and Pump System
Problem
Fluid transferring systems for microfluidic chips can be costly and complex, especially when it comes to multichannel systems. The process of loading and extracting fluids from a controlled environment for mixing can also introduce contamination or sample loss risks.
Solution
Embedding the valve and pump function onto the chip membrane and pairing it with a simple push-control device can minimize the size, complexity, and cost of equipment needed to move and mix reagents. Enplas’s proprietary Rotary Membrane Valve and Pump (RMVP) features a simple-yet-robust design that reduces system complexity and the risk of contamination or dead volumes. The RMVP automatically handles over 20 channels of fluids at once without the need for external valves and pumps.
Basic Fluid Motion Via a Push-and-Pull Function
A push-pull function on microfluidic chips can drive fluid flow. The RMVP utilizes two rotary pushers to control the membrane valve and pump to push and pull multiple liquids. This basic-yet-proficient function reliably transfers reagents without the need for external pumps or valving systems. Watch the following video to see how the RMVP’s push-and-pull function moves reagents around the chip and learn about the mechanism behind it.
Automated Microfluidic Mixing
Reagents can be mixed on-chip by combining several actions of pushing and pulling various fluids. With the RMVP, multiple reagents can be mixed entirely without leaving the chip, thus reducing the risk of cross-contamination or sample loss. The RMVP performs automated mixing, effectively mixing several fluids at once. Watch the video to see how the core push-and-pull function accomplishes effective on-chip reagent mixing.
Specifications
Useable Materials for the Plastic Chip:
- COC
- COP
- PMMA
Example Applications:
- Sample prep
- PCR including dPCR
- NGS
- Electrophoresis
- Cell handling
- Any other applications involving liquid, such as IVD, drug development, food testing, and more.
