Issue 2, 2010

Magnetic connectors for microfluidic applications

Abstract

We present a new type of microfluidic connector that employs a ring magnet on one side of the microfluidic chip and a disc magnet on the other side to produce a sealed connection between external tubing and inlets or outlets of microfluidic devices. The connectors are low-cost, simple to use and assemble, and reusable. We used numerical (finite element) simulations in order to optimize their geometry. Configurations that achieve interfacial forces in the range of 2 N to 15 N are discussed. Several types of gasket materials were explored. Finally, we demonstrate an application of these connectors in a microfluidic device used to generate liposomes.

Graphical abstract: Magnetic connectors for microfluidic applications

Supplementary files

Article information

Article type
Technical Note
Submitted
07 Jul 2009
Accepted
01 Oct 2009
First published
16 Nov 2009

Lab Chip, 2010,10, 246-249

Magnetic connectors for microfluidic applications

J. Atencia, G. A. Cooksey, A. Jahn, J. M. Zook, W. N. Vreeland and L. E. Locascio, Lab Chip, 2010, 10, 246 DOI: 10.1039/B913331C

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