Design and dynamic characterization of “single-stroke” peristaltic PDMS micropumps

Abstract

In this paper, we present a monolithic PDMS micropump that generates peristaltic flow using a single control channel that actuates a group of different-sized microvalves. An elastomeric microvalve design with a raised seat, which improves bonding reliability, is incorporated into the micropump. Pump performance is evaluated based on several design parameters—size, number, and connection of successive microvalves along with control channel pressure at various operating frequencies. Flow rates ranging 0–5.87 µL min⁻¹ were observed. The micropump design demonstrated here represents a substantial reduction in the number of/real estate taken up by the control lines that are required to run a peristaltic pump, hence it should become a widespread tool for parallel fluid processing in high-throughput microfluidics.