Development of Micro Rotary Reactor Causing Spiral Laminar Flow Interfaces

Abstract

Recently, research and development of the micro-fluidic systems such as μTAS and Lab-on-chip have been activated in the field of chemical technology and biotechnology. Micro-fluidic systems are realized by micromachine technology and MEMS technology. These are essential elements for miniaturization of chemical analysis reaction systems. Furthermore, micro-fluidic systems can be applied to home medical care system. Micro mixing device is an essential element for a realization of these systems. Normally, mixing of different fluids depends on turbulent flow and diffusion. But it is difficult to generate turbulent flow in minute space. Micro mixer is important to improve reaction efficiency. The aim of this research is a development of a micro rotary reactor which will be built into micro-fluidic systems. The full length and the diameter of this reactor are 59mm and 15mm, respectively. This reactor is driven by an electromagnetic actuator. Therefore, the structure of this reactor becomes very simple and it is easy to miniaturize this reactor. This reactor aims at combing two liquids and forming spiral laminar flow interfaces. Forming spiral laminar flow interfaces increase reaction surface area and reaction distance of two liquids. This paper shows the structure and the characteristics of this reactor.