Modelling and experimental characterisation of thermoelectric heating for molecular diagnostics devices

Abstract

Certain novel molecular diagnostics Point-of-Care applications require precise temperature control (±1–5 °C) over an extended time (15–60 minutes) for proper function. Microheating components in portable tests must meet strict criteria with respect to size and power consumption, both of which may be met with thermoelectric heating. Our proposed finite element model is intended to provide tools for the evaluation of thermoelectric heating for molecular diagnostics as well as aid in iterative device design and in silico validation of device designs. The proposed model was developed for and validated with a commercially available thermoelectric cooler. A 3D printed test structure was created to house a glass microfluidic chip (<0.1 ml channel volume) and the heating element, imitating a tiny portable Point-of-Care test. Experimental setups were evaluated in the operating input voltage range of the heating element. Physical parameters of the setup were fed into the finite element model and a comparison made between simulated and physical temperature recordings.