Researchers at LLNL have created a new technology for performing pumping and valving operations in microfabricated fluidic systems. Traditional microfabricated devices have some disadvantages that defeat the advantages of miniaturization. For example, they require high power and voltage, and they need specific fluids to work properly and to be broadly applicable. The technology described here uses low power, high pressure approach to slide the device's polymer plug within its microchannel, in turn controlling complex fluidic processes on-chip. This method is more efficient than current micro pumping and valving technology and addresses unmet needs for a totally integrated on-chip microfluidic system. One of the main advantages of this technology is the lower power consumption. The device consumes zero power when idle, and minimal power over a short time of period when activated. In addition, the valve requires no power when the channel is in the open or closed states. In other technologies, most valves require power in one state or the other. Other advantages of this technology are its compact design, low cost of production, and the fluid can be stored and sealed within the device.

The figure shows an integrated microsyringe manifold with three pumps for injecting different solutions into a common mixing/reaction chamber.