Title: A valveless micropump based on additive fabrication technology

Authors: Cuong Nguyen Nhu; Luan Le Van; An Nguyen Ngoc; Van Thanh Dau; Tung Thanh Bui; Trinh Chu Duc

Addresses: Faculty of Electronics and Telecommunication, University of Engineering and Technology, Vietnam National University, 144, Xuan Thuy, Cau Giay, Hanoi, 1000, Vietnam ' Faculty of Electronics and Telecommunication, University of Engineering and Technology, Vietnam National University, 144, Xuan Thuy, Cau Giay, Hanoi, 1000, Vietnam ' Faculty of Electronics and Telecommunication, University of Engineering and Technology, Vietnam National University, 144, Xuan Thuy, Cau Giay, Hanoi, 1000, Vietnam ' School of Engineering and Built Environment, Griffith University, Queensland QLD 4222, Australia ' Faculty of Electronics and Telecommunication, University of Engineering and Technology, Vietnam National University, 144, Xuan Thuy, Cau Giay, Hanoi, 1000, Vietnam ' Faculty of Electronics and Telecommunication, University of Engineering and Technology, Vietnam National University, 144, Xuan Thuy, Cau Giay, Hanoi, 1000, Vietnam

Abstract: A valveless microfluidic pump fabricated by additive fabrication technology is presented. Nozzle/diffuser structures are used to direct the flow of liquid currents inside the PZT-based micropump. A unique design using the collision of two inlet currents helps reduce the back-flow during the suction phase and promotes mixing ability. The micropump is simulated and a positive flow rate is observed at the outlet. The performance of the pump is further investigated at different driving frequencies and voltages. Simulation study on the nozzle/diffuser helps determine an efficient configuration of the nozzle/diffuser of 6° opening angle. The proposed micropump is suitable for low-cost disposable applications and is capable of delivering a controlled amount of liquid.

Keywords: 3D printing; micropump; valveless; FEM; finite element method.

DOI: 10.1504/IJNT.2018.099938

International Journal of Nanotechnology, 2018 Vol.15 No.11/12, pp.1010 - 1023

Published online: 28 May 2019 *

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