Magnetic connectors for microfluidic applications.
We present a new type of microfluidic connector that employs a ring magnet on one side of the microfluidic chip and a disc magnet on the other side to produce a sealed connection between external tubing and inlets or outlets of microfluidic devices. The connectors are low-cost, simple to use and assemble, and reusable. We used numerical (finite element) simulations in order to optimize their geometry. Configurations that achieve interfacial forces in the range of 2 N to 15 N are discussed. Several types of gasket materials were explored. Finally, we demonstrate an application of these connectors in a microfluidic device used to generate liposomes.
Atencia
Javier
J
National Institute of Standards and Technology, Biochemical Science Division, Gaithersburg, MD 20817-8313, USA. javier.atencia@nist.gov
Cooksey
Gregory A
GA
Jahn
Andreas
A
Zook
Justin M
JM
Vreeland
Wyatt N
WN
Locascio
Laurie E
LE