Electrokinetic device employing a non-Newtonian liquid
AssigneeEksigent Technologies, LLC
InventorPhillip Paul
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A non-Newtonian fluid is used in an electrokinetic device to produce electroosmotic flow therethrough. The nonlinear viscosity of the non-Newtonian fluid allows the electrokinetic device to behave differently under different operating conditions, such as externally applied pressures and electric potentials. Electrokinetic devices can be used with a non-Newtonian fluid in a number of applications, including but not limited to electrokinetic pumps, flow controllers, diaphragm valves, and displacement systems.
Claims76
An electrokinetic device comprising:
- a conduit having an inlet, an outlet, and an interior surface;
- a non-Newtonian liquid within the conduit, where at least a portion of the interior surface of the conduit in contact with the non-Newtonian liquid displays a zeta potential;
- and
- a plurality of electrodes configured to create an electric potential difference between the inlet and the outlet when connected to a power supply.
A kit for causing flow in an electrokinetic device, the kit comprising:
- a fluidic device including a conduit having an inlet, an outlet, and an interior surface, at least a portion of the interior surface displaying a zeta potential when in contact with a liquid;
- a plurality of electrodes configured to create an electric potential difference between the inlet and the outlet when coupled to a power source;
- and
- instructions for using the electrokinetic device with a non-Newtonian liquid.
An electrokinetic device comprising:
- a liquid having a substantially nonlinear viscosity;
- an electrokinetic means for displaying a zeta potential between the liquid and a conduit for conducting the liquid;
- and
- an electric potential difference configured across the conduit to cause an electroosmotic flow of the liquid within the conduit.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.