An Integrated Microfluidic System on a Chip for Chemical Analysis

We propose to develop a generic modular microanalytical system which will integrate sample workup, separation and detection on a chip. It is the ultimate goal to provide chip-based assays dedicated to a predetermined set of analytes. This analyzer will replace more expensive and complex gas chromatographic and mass spectroscopic instruments in numerous applications in the field and laboratory. The microchip laboratory will incorporate four "modules" etched into a glass substrate (preconcentration, separation, amplification, detection). The projected device will have the capability of resolving multiple analytes at the level of 1-10 nM concentration in liquid sample volumes on the order of 100 picoliters. In Phase I, the feasibility of this approach will be demonstrated through two specific goals: 1) Demonstration of a microchip module that performs analysis of a nonpolar residue of military significance (a chemical warfare agent simulant) through micellar electrokinectic chromatography and post-column reaction, followed by fluorescence detection; 2) demonstration of a microchip that performs pre-concentration and release of nonpolar analytes in water through solid phase extraction on the channel walls. Phase II will entail integration of these two modules and developing separation/detection schemes for compound classes covered by schedules 1 and 2 of the Chemical Weapons Convention. A portable instrument which conducts parallel, rapid determines of multiple analytes from micro-volumes of solution is the goal of Phase III.