MikrofluidikGeräte

MikrofluidikGeräte, also known as microfluidic devices, are systems that manipulate and control very small volumes of fluids, typically in the range of microliters to picoliters, within channels that have dimensions ranging from tens to hundreds of micrometers. These devices are built upon the principles of microfluidics, a field that studies the behavior of fluids at this microscopic scale. The behavior of fluids in microchannels can differ significantly from that in macroscopic systems, often exhibiting laminar flow and a high surface area to volume ratio, which enables efficient heat and mass transfer.

The fabrication of MikrofluidikGeräte often involves techniques borrowed from the semiconductor industry, such as photolithography and soft lithography, as well as newer methods like 3D printing. Common materials used include glass, silicon, and polymers like polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). These devices find applications across a wide range of scientific and technological domains.

In diagnostics and medicine, MikrofluidikGeräte are used for lab-on-a-chip systems, enabling rapid and portable analysis of biological samples, such as blood or saliva, for disease detection and monitoring. They are also employed in drug discovery and development for high-throughput screening and cell-based assays. In chemistry, these devices facilitate precise control over reactions, enabling miniaturized synthesis and analysis. Furthermore, MikrofluidikGeräte are utilized in environmental monitoring, food safety testing, and even in the development of micro-propulsion systems. Their ability to perform complex operations with minimal sample and reagent consumption, coupled with potential for automation and integration, makes them a rapidly evolving technology.