Ionic electroactive polymer actuators as active microfluidic mixers

Journal Article · Fri Nov 06 04:00:00 UTC 2015 · Analytical Methods

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1039/C5AY01061F · OSTI ID:1234465

Meis, Catherine ^[1]; Montazami, Reza ^[1]; Hashemi, Nastaran ^[1]

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1. Iowa State Univ., Ames, IA (United States)

On-chip sample processing is integral to the continued development of lab-on-a-chip devices for various applications. An active microfluidic mixer prototype is proposed using ionic electroactive polymer actuators (IEAPAs) as artificial cilia. A proof-of-concept experiment was performed in which the actuators were shown to produce localized flow pattern disruptions in the laminar flow regime. Suggestions for further engineering and optimization of a scaled-down, complete device are provided. Furthermore, the device in its current state of development necessitates further engineering, the use of IEAPAs addresses issues currently associated with the use of electromechanical actuators as active microfluidic mixers and may prove to be a useful alternative to other similar materials.

• Research Organization: Ames Lab. (AMES), Ames, IA (United States)
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE Office of Science (SC), Workforce Development for Teachers and Scientists (WDTS) (SC-27)
• Grant/Contract Number: AC02-07CH11358
• OSTI ID: 1234465
• Report Number(s): IS-J--8878
• Journal Information: Analytical Methods, Journal Name: Analytical Methods Journal Issue: 24 Vol. 7; ISSN AMNECT; ISSN 1759-9660
• Publisher: Royal Society of ChemistryCopyright Statement
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English