Modular, Discrete Micromixer Elements Fabricated by 3D Printing

Abstract

3D printing facilitates the straightforward construction of microchannels with complex three-dimensional architectures. Here, we demonstrate 3D-printed modular mixing components that operate on the basis of splitting and recombining fluid streams to decrease interstream diffusion length. These are compared to helical mixers that operate on the principle of chaotic advection.

Microscale impeller pump for recirculating flow in organs-on-chip and microreactors

“…Current technology provides a variety of methods to achieve biologically-relevant fluid flow rates on a microfluidic device, but these remain challenging for use when running many organ-on-chip devices simultaneously with fine control over flow rate, particularly for fluid recirculation. External, motorized fluid control systems such as syringe pumps 13,14 and peristaltic pumps 15,16 provide precise fluid control at physiological flow rates, but they can be expensive, bulky, and require many tubes or wires if running multiple devices at once. Furthermore, these pumps may emit heat, making them incompatible with use inside of an incubator for longterm culture.…”