Micropipes

Micropipes refer to very small, often microscopic, tubes or channels used for transporting fluids, gases, or even solids. These structures are typically fabricated using microfabrication techniques, commonly employed in the semiconductor industry. The dimensions of micropipes can range from a few micrometers to several hundred micrometers in diameter.

The applications of micropipes are diverse and span various fields. In microfluidics, they are integral components of lab-on-a-chip devices, enabling precise control and manipulation of small fluid volumes for chemical analysis, drug discovery, and diagnostics. They are also utilized in microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) for tasks such as micro-cooling of electronic components, drug delivery systems, and inkjet printing.

The fabrication of micropipes often involves processes like photolithography, etching, and molding. Materials used can include silicon, glass, polymers, and even metals, chosen based on the specific application's requirements for chemical resistance, thermal properties, and biocompatibility. The development of micropipe technology continues to advance, paving the way for more sophisticated micro-scale devices and systems.