Chaotic mixing in three-dimensional microvascular networks fabricated by direct-write assembly.
The creation of geometrically complex fluidic devices is a subject of broad fundamental and technological interest. Here, we demonstrate the fabrication of three-dimensional (3D) microvascular networks through direct-write assembly of a fugitive organic ink. This approach yields a pervasive network of smooth cylindrical channels (approximately 10-300 microm) with defined connectivity. Square-spiral towers, isolated within this vascular network, promote fluid mixing through chaotic advection. These vertical towers give rise to dramatic improvements in mixing relative to simple straight (1D) and square-wave (2D) channels while significantly reducing the device planar footprint. We envisage that 3D microvascular networks will provide an enabling platform for a wide array of fluidic-based applications.
Therriault
Daniel
D
Department of Aerospace Engineering, Frederick Seitz Materials Research Laboratory, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA.
White
Scott R
SR
Lewis
Jennifer A
JA
D004853:Epoxy Resins / Q000737:chemistry*; D004867:Equipment Design; D007281:Ink; D008422:Materials Testing / Q000379:methods*; D008832:Microchemistry / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D008833:Microcirculation; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D008904:Miniaturization; D008955:Models, Cardiovascular; D036103:Nanotechnology / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D017711:Nonlinear Dynamics; D012212:Rheology / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D012371:Robotics
D004853:Epoxy Resins