Lab-on-a-chip
A lab-on-a-chip is a device that integrates one or more laboratory functions on a single integrated circuit (chip). These chips only reach a few millimeters to a few square centimeters in size. Despite their small size, they achieve high-throughput automation and screening. A Lab-on-a-chip can handle extremely small volumes of liquid down to less than picoliters.
Lab-on-a-chip devices enable functional integration of microfluidics into the diagnostic process. The devices are small and less expensive than large laboratory systems. This enables them to be used directly at the point-of-care or incorporated into other, larger systems.
Video: Building a lab-on-a-chip system
Our mp6 micropump extends passive microfluidic chips and converts them into active units. In microfluidics, we are almost always exposed to laminar flows. This results in a lack of cross-flow within the liquid and makes it difficult to mix two liquids.
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In this video, a special structure of the microfluidic chip evokes this cross-flow. In conclusion, making it easier to mix the two differently colored liquids. The micropump is electronically driven. It enables this slim, small and inexpensive system the fast and safe filling of even the smallest and complex structures. This is the base for lab-on-a-chip applications, for example.
Rather than using conventional laboratory technology, testing and diagnostics can be carried out directly at the point of care. This saves time and costs and leads to a more functional system. The flat system can be integrated into portable devices, the digital handling allows for a variable flow rate and simple operation.
Case Study: Smart Dispensing of Liquids in the range of Micro- & Nanoliters
There is a significant amount of applications that require the dispensing of very low amounts of liquids. Especially the medical (like with lab-on-a-chip), life science and automotive industries often need to move highly viscose liquids at a very low rate. This process needs to be highly controlled since deviations are often not easily visible for the naked eye.
Our team in the microEngineering department at Bartels took it upon themselves to find a solution for this issue. They took our mp6 micropump and the mp-Labtronix laboratory box and constructed a simple setup. In order for you to be successful in the area of Nano Dispensing, they tested a wide variety of parameters to find the ones that work best for this application.
Do you want to learn more?
- In our Case Studies you can read about a wide range of topics in microfluidics.
- Visit our YouTube channel. Here we regularly post new videos on applications in microfluidics.
- You can also take a look at the microfluidic chips we currently offer in our portfolio.