In microfluidic chip experiments,Aegis microfluidic valveThe fluid manipulation techniques mainly revolve around its multi-channel design, precision control capability, and collaborative application with drive technology. The following elaborates on three aspects: core functions, application scenarios, and operational points:
1Aegis microfluidic valveThe core function of
Multi channel precise switching
The Aegis valve adopts a multi-channel rotary cutting structure (such as a 6-speed/10 position directional valve), which achieves rapid switching of fluid paths through the rotation of the valve body. For example, when multiple reagents need to be processed simultaneously in microfluidic chips, the valve body can be programmed to switch to different channels to achieve precise distribution of nanograde reagents (error<0.5%) and avoid cross contamination.
Low dead volume design
After optimizing the internal flow channel of the valve body, the dead volume can be controlled below 5 μ L, significantly reducing sample residue. This characteristic is crucial in single-cell analysis or high-value reagent experiments, as it can reduce sample waste and improve experimental reproducibility.
Pressure resistance and sealing performance
The Eguis valve can withstand high pressures exceeding 15MPa, coupled with ultra-low leakage rate (<0.01%) sealing rings, ensuring stable operation in high-pressure scenarios such as ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC), while meeting the hygiene requirements of FDA/cGMP certification for biopharmaceutical equipment.
2、 Typical application scenarios and control techniques
Concentration gradient generation in microfluidic chips
Tip: By combining the multi-channel switching function of the Aegis valve and adjusting the flow rate and concentration of different reagents, a dynamic concentration gradient of the "Christmas tree" model can be achieved.
Advantages: Compared with semi permeable membrane diffusion method, this method has stable gradient and can be maintained for a long time, making it suitable for drug screening and cell behavior research (such as tumor metastasis mechanism analysis).
Control of droplet microreactors
Tip: Using the valve body to quickly switch channels and surface tension drive technology, droplets with diameters ranging from submicron to hundreds of microns can be generated to achieve single-cell encapsulation or chemical reaction isolation.
Case: In the organ chip experiment, the frequency of droplet generation was controlled by a valve body to simulate the effect of blood flow on cells.
High-throughput sequential injection
Tip: Link the Aegis valve with the injection pump/pressure pump, control the valve body switching through the LABVIEW program, and achieve automated continuous injection.
Data: In the analysis of 96 well plate samples, the valve body switching time can be shortened to 0.1 seconds, significantly improving the flux.
3、 Operation points and maintenance suggestions
Collaborative driving technology
Pressure driven: When coupling an external pump (such as a peristaltic pump) with the valve body, it is necessary to ensure stable inlet pressure (recommended 0.6-1.0MPa) to avoid pressure fluctuations that may cause valve body jamming.
Electroosmotic drive: In glass matrix chips, it is necessary to control the pH value of the solution (neutral or slightly acidic) to maintain the stability of electroosmotic flow, while adding 0.2% HPMC to reduce the risk of cell sedimentation.
Fault prevention and handling
Leakage investigation: Regularly check the wear of the sealing ring, replace it immediately if a leak is found, and clean the impurities inside the valve body.
Stuck solution: If the valve body responds slowly, the flow channel can be cleaned with ultrasonic waves or the driving pressure can be adjusted to the recommended range.
Preventive maintenance cycle
Daily: Rinse the valve body with pure water after the experiment to avoid salt precipitation or protein adsorption.
Monthly: Check the elasticity of valve body drive components (such as pneumatic membranes) and replace them if necessary.
Quarterly: Calibrate valve body switching accuracy to ensure channel alignment error is less than 0.1mm.