Microfluidics Transport and Path Control via Programmable Electrowetting on Dielectric (EWOD) Card

65599 Miniaturized chemical sensor systems are being introduced for field analytical applications by the DOE, other government agencies, and industry. Accordingly, compatible systems for introducing and handling small-scale samples will be required for practical, unattended operation. The sample systems must handle small liquid volumes, be comparable in size to the micro-sensor systems, use low voltages and power, be self priming, and avoid dead volumes and pneumatic actuators. Microfluidic sample introduction and handling systems, based on electrowetting technology, have the potential to meet these requirements. Therefore, this project will develop devices, using electrowetting on dielectric (EWOD) technology, to perform all of the necessary sample introduction and manipulation functions required for typical applications. Phase I tested and fabricated an EWOD device consisting of a postage stamp sized array of electronically addressable Teflon pads. The surface tension characteristics of the pads could be altered on command, using computer algorithms, to transport droplets as desired. Droplet stability in the EWOD device was examined. In Phase II, the EWOD device fabrication will be advanced by utilizing improved dielectric layers and device designs to prevent electrolysis and to apply electrowetting to a wider range of solutions. Individual EWOD devices will be designed, fabricated, and tested for all specialized functions needed for sample introduction and manipulation. Laboratory and field prototypes for an integrated sampling system interfaced to a microcantilever sensor system will be fabricated and tested. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The EWOD technology should be of interest to the DoD, DOE, other local and federal agencies, and the private sector for security and environmental monitoring, testing and monitoring water quality, industrial process control, and regulation-induced pollution monitoring. Benefits include a heightened level of security protection, reduced manufacturing and environmental remediation costs, and improved performance and affordability of scientific instrumentation and testing.