On the Entropic Heating of Microfluidics for PCR Applications

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Polymerized Chain Reaction (PCR) technology has for a number of years been used as a tool for a range of applications in genetic research. Indeed, in the world of genetics PCR is considered to be one of the most important discoveries of the last century. This work is focused upon understanding and utilizing the thermodynamics of the fluid flow through microsystems, with the aim of developing an efficient thermocycler for PCR applications. The novel approach of utilizing the entropy generation rate in a couette type flow to provide entropic heating to the bio-fluid is addressed. The advantages of such a PCR device include, the removal of external heaters, an even distribution of heating through the bio-fluid, possibility of enhanced mixing, fast cycle times and the requirement for small sample sizes. These parameters are key requirements for an efficient PCR on the microscale. It is also demonstrated that this concept is not possible on the macro scale due to the ratio of heat generation relatively to fluid volume, however on the micro scale it is demonstrated to be theoretically plausible.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationMicro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) - 2003
PublisherAmerican Society of Mechanical Engineers
Pages33-36
Number of pages4
ISBN (Print)0791837211, 9780791837214
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2003
Event2003 ASME International Mechanical Engineering Congress - Washington, DC, United States
Duration: 15 Nov 200321 Nov 2003

Publication series

NameAmerican Society of Mechanical Engineers, Micro-Electromechanical Systems Division Publication (MEMS)
Volume5

Conference

Conference2003 ASME International Mechanical Engineering Congress
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityWashington, DC
Period15/11/0321/11/03

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