Microfluidics
Microfluidics at IMM is dealing with the implementation of analyses in microsystems. A preferably early identification of deficient functioning and parameters allows a quick correction of errors and, thus, helps to save time and cost. In order to enable a timely on-site analysis space-saving, fast, cost-saving and efficient "lab-on-a-chip" or "micro total analysis" systems are developed with the aid of microtechnology. These systems promptly allow to have a required response, such as a change in drug application or the substitution of a worn device component. Microfluidics enables a controlled movement of small volumes and effective control of reactions in microchannels. Thus, whole process chains can be carried out in an automated way in microfluidic substrates (chips). These chips are connected to an operating device via fluidic, optic and/or electronic connectors.
The implementation of analyses in microfluidic systems is predominantly allocated to two major application fields- biological and medical analytics and industrial analytics. Bioanalytics is dealing with the analysis of a variety of samples with different origin in terms of biological organisms (cells, bacteria, viruses, parasites) or their building blocks (proteins, nucleic acids, metabolites, toxins, etc.) respectively. This kind of analyses is relevant to diagnostics, environmental and food analytics as well as security issues. Industrial analytics is predominantly focusing on process control and quality assurance. In this field educts and products are tested (e.g. for purity, composition, contamination), processes are checked for side reactions (process efficiency) or physical parameters are verified (e.g. temperature, density, ageing).
IMM is developing prototypes for complete microfluidic package solutions in the fields of bio(medical) and industrial analytics. For that purpose the interdisciplinary team relies on its substantial experience in the fields of microfluidics, simulation, fabrication technologies, packaging and (bio)-analytics. All the systems are especially adapted to individual needs in close cooperation with the customer. During that process first single functionalities are established and then finally integrated. Depending on the particular specifications the microsystems are realised in polymer materials, glass or silicon, in IMM's own workshops or cleanroom.
