Microfluidic devices and methods to regulate hydrodynamic and electrical resistance utilizing bulk viscosity enhancers
AssigneeCaliper Technologies Corp.
InventorsAndrea W. Chow, Carlton Brooks
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
Methods and devices for inducing high bulk hydrodynamic resistance and/or for inducing low electrical resistance in microscale systems including bulk viscosity enhancers, surfactants, and electrolytes. High bulk hydrodynamic resistance is optionally utilized to regulate the effects of spontaneous injection and/or dispersion. Induced high hydrodynamic resistance in conjunction with induced low electrical resistance are optionally utilized to provide and regulate electrical fields within microfluidic devices. Integrated systems incorporating the methods of the invention are also provided.
Claims46
A method of inducing high bulk hydrodynamic resistance in a microfluidic device, the method comprising:
- providing at least one microscale cavity in the microfluidic device;
- introducing a fluid into the microscale cavity, the fluid comprising an analyte and at least one bulk viscosity enhancer, wherein the at least one bulk viscosity enhancer effects an increase in bulk hydrodynamic resistance of the fluid within the at least one microscale cavity, thereby inducing high bulk hydrodynamic resistance in the microfluidic device.
A device or system, comprising:
- a body structure comprising at least one microscale cavity extending therefrom;
- and,
- the at least one microscale cavity containing a fluid comprising an analyte and at least one bulk viscosity enhancer.
A device or system, comprising:
- a body structure having at least one microscale cavity fabricated therein;
- and,
- the at least one microscale cavity containing a fluid comprising an analyte, at least one bulk viscosity enhancer, and at least one electrolyte.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.