Microfluidic device
A Microfluidic device has a wide range of applications. In this post, we will discuss the definition of a microfluidic device, the difference between a microfluidic device and a microfluidic chip, and the different types of microfluidic devices available in the market.
definition
A microfluidic device is a system that can precisely manipulate liquids in very small quantities, typically in the range of microliters (µL) to picoliters (pL). These devices use microscopic channels and chambers to transport, mix, separate, or carry out chemical reactions in liquids in a controlled manner. For this reason, microfluidic systems are widely used in various fields such as chemistry, biology, medicine and materials science.
Difference between microfluidic device and microfluidic chip
The term "microfluidic chip" actually comes from the electronics industry. As a rule, the term microfluidic chip refers to the physical platform on which the microfluidic device is housed. Microfluidic chips are usually between 1 cm and 10 cm in size and look on average like a microscope slide. Therefore, one microfluidic chip can house multiple microfluidic devices.
Types of microfluidic devices
Custom glass micromachining offers the advantage of being able to shape microfluidic devices so that they are suitable for a variety of purposes. Some of the most common types of microfluidic devices are listed below.
Straight-channel microfluidic device - a single straight microchannel with one inlet and one outlet.
Y-channel microfluidic device - mainly for separation applications
T-junction microfluidic device - for the generation of droplets, such as water-in-oil or oil-in-water.
Cross microfluidic device - Connection of two perpendicular ducts with main duct
Spiral microfluidic devices - a single spiral channel that branches at the outer end of the channels.
Materials for the manufacture of microfluidic devices
Microfluidic devices are often made from PDMS, a special silicone. At Citrogene, we have developed our own method of using glass for microfluidic devices.
Citrogene: Glass Microfluidic Engineers
Microfluidics offers a wide range of applications in many different industries. When it comes to developing the ideal microfluidic device for your specific needs, Citrogene is the company of choice. They develop precision, customized, state-of-the-art glass microfluidic devices that are tailored to customers' needs using their many proprietary processes.
