Slow and Steady Pressure Driven Flows in Microfluidics

Shelley Anna, Mechanical Engineering

In numerous microfluidic technologies, it is desired to control the flow of very small quantities of liquid using pressure driven flows. Desired flow rates and/or pressure drops are frequently smaller than conventional syringe pumps and gas pressure regulators allow. In addition, the pulsations inherent in syringe pump operations are detrimental to many applications. This undergraduate research project seeks to develop new methods of driving slow and steady flows in microchannels. In particular, we have developed a model design that uses a microfluidic pipe network to convert conventional flow rate driven flow into a slow, steady, pressure drop controlled flow in a portion of the network. Initial tasks in the project will include building a microfluidic prototype of this model using soft lithography, and validating its operation through experiments. As the project continues there will be an opportunity to design and develop other methods to accomplish the same goals.

The Anna Group in the Department of Mechanical Engineering is looking for motivated, independent, and hard-working undergraduates to work on several exciting projects in the area of microfluidics. Projects are primarily experimental in nature, although prior experience with laboratory work is not required. However, it is expected that students will have taken at least one prior course in fluid mechanics and received a "B" or better in the course. Interested students should contact Professor Shelley Anna and include a copy of your resume in your request.