Microfluidic apparatus for the atomisation of a liquid

An apparatus for the atomization of a liquid including:

• a piezoelectric substrate having at least one working surface upon which a drop of the liquid can be applied, at least one electrode supported on the piezoelectric substrate, the electrode being an elliptical electrode width controlled single phase unidirectional transducer (EWC SPUDT) and having an exit aperture, the ratio of the diameter of the liquid drop to exit aperture being between 0.5 and 2;
• a signal generating means for applying an ultrasonic signal to said electrode for generating a surface acoustic wave (SAW) in the working surface of the piezoelectric substrate;
• and
• a liquid delivery arrangement including a wick in contact with the working surface for delivering liquid thereof,
• wherein liquid delivered to the working surface is atomized by SAW irradiation.