Microfluidic devices have a wide range of possible uses. In this post, we 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, differences between microfluidic chips and devices, and types of microfluidic devices.
A microfluidic device is something that processes a small amount of liquid, from nanoliters to milliliters. Of course, this definition is very broad and vague. As a distributor of microfluidic devices, we believe that a microfluidic device includes a microfluidic channel with all relevant microfeatures and inlet and outlet ports to make it work.
What is the difference between a microfluidic device and a microfluidic chip?
The term “microfluidic chip” actually comes from the electronics industry. Typically, the term microfluidic chip refers to the physical platform that houses the microfluidic device. Microfluidic chips are typically between 1 cm and 10 cm in size and, on average, look like a microscope slide. A microfluidic chip can house multiple microfluidic devices.
Types of microfluidic devices
The advantage of custom glass micromachining is that microfluidic devices can be shaped to suit a variety of purposes. Below are some of the most common types of microfluidic devices.
Straight Channel Microfluidic Device – single straight microchannel with one inlet and one outlet.
Y-Channel Microfluidic Device – mainly used for separation applications.
T-Junction Microfluidic Device – used for the generation of droplets, such as water-in-oil or oil-in-water.
Cross-Junction Microfluidic Device – two perpendicular channels connect to the main channel
Spiral Microfluidic Devices – single spiraling channel that branches at the outside end of the channels.
What materials are used to make 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 has a multitude of applications across a wide variety of industries. When it comes to producing the ideal microfluidic device for your specific needs, there’s only one microfluidic partner to consider: Citrogene. Our proprietary process allows us to create precise, customized, state-of-the-art microfluidic devices based on your needs, all produced in glass. Contact us today to learn more.
