Issue 4, 2011

Electrical isolation and characteristics of permanent magnet-actuated valves for PDMS microfluidics

Abstract

This paper presents a magnetically driven valve via a permanent magnet pressing a spacer against deformable polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) to fully close a microchannel. Its ability for electrical isolation, time response, and resistance to backpressure are interrogated. Simulation of the valve closing process was commenced along with experimental verification. Effects of PDMS thickness, and dimension and aspect ratio of microchannels were characterized. Up to 10 GΩ electrical isolation was demonstrated, as well as 50–70 ms valve response and ∼200 kPa resistible pressure. On-demand actuation for arbitrary flow patterns further quantifies its utility. With advantages of simple fabrication, flexible valving location, and no external power requirement, the on/off valve could be leveraged for proof-of-concept microfluidic devices and other applications.

Graphical abstract: Electrical isolation and characteristics of permanent magnet-actuated valves for PDMS microfluidics

Supplementary files

Article information

Article type
Technical Note
Submitted
16 Sep 2010
Accepted
29 Oct 2010
First published
06 Dec 2010

Lab Chip, 2011,11, 733-737

Electrical isolation and characteristics of permanent magnet-actuated valves for PDMS microfluidics

C. Chen, C. Chen, T. Tu, C. Lin and A. M. Wo, Lab Chip, 2011, 11, 733 DOI: 10.1039/C0LC00415D

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