Media-separated micropump consisting of magnetic shape memory alloy actuator

Abstract:
Current developments in point-of-care (PoC) diagnostics, lab-on-chip (LoC) and analytical instrumentation require efficient micro fluidic handling, as well as accuracy and reliability of the entire system. In microfluidics, precise and continuous volume flow in the smallest volume range is a major challenge. In addition to the requirements for volume flow, effective use of resources, low costs and high quantities are of further importance in the above mentioned areas of application. An obvious approach to implementing these requirements is to divide the pump into disposable and non-disposable components. With a bipartite micropump based on a Ni-Mn-Ga alloy magnetic shape memory (MSM) actuator, it is possible to meet precisely these challenges. This study presents a newly developed sealing structure as disposable pump part, investigated in various tests for their hydraulic characteristics. These include, in particular, volume flow and differential pressure. A major innovation is the media-separated MSM micropump and an industrially manufactured sealing structure, which provides identical results within a narrow tolerance range. The whole concept with injection-molded seals, a stepper motor and a diametrically polarized permanent magnet is prepared for high quantities.