Non-Mechanical Liquid Crystal-Based Fluid Control

KSU.282

Abstract: Fluidic flow is directed in a capillary or channel in a miniaturized separation or microfluidic device by the addition of liquid crystals to the fluid filling the channel. Under appropriate conditions (temperature, composition, hydration, and additive) this externally triggered change in liquid crystal produces a change in viscosity.  This triggered change in viscosity directs fluid flow in multiple path channels and/or capillaries and therefore serves as a means of directing and controlling fluid flow.

Application(s): Any industrial application using chip-based or microfluidic devices; home safety diagnostics; home medical diagnostics; point of care devices; and other applications benefiting from valving of portable microfluidic devices.

Inventors: Dr. John L. West, (& Dr. L. Holland et al – a joint invention with other universities)