In the field of fluidic components, internal volumes play a particularly important role. Amongst them, dead volumes (liquid trapped) and carryover volume (or contamination volume) play an even more critical role in microfluidic fluid handling. Microfluidic experiments are so sensitive and involve such small quantities of liquids that every drop counts and can have an impact in downstream operations/measurements.
At AMF, we develop solutions that enhance the efficiency and accuracy of microfluidic experiments across various fields including biomedical research, pharmaceutical development, and environmental analysis.
Firstly, what is the internal volume in microfluidics? It encompasses the entire fluid pathway within a microfluidic setup, from entrance to exit, including the liquid in tubings, the microfluidic chip, and the microfluidic valve itself.
Dead volume is a critical concern in microfluidics, referring to the liquid trapped within a system, known as unswept volume, resulting in significant reagent waste and diminished experiment accuracy.
To clarify:
This challenge is really important to avoid cross-contamination, see even in the worst case, the creation of biofilm.
Put simply, dead volume represents the portion of the system that cannot be flushed out. For biochemists, it’s considered a major issue because it’s where cells and molecules can become stuck, leading to contamination and skewed results in every measurement.
Carryover, or contamination volume, is the volume of liquid inadvertently carried over with the next fluid. Unlike dead volume, carryover does not remain trapped but can still compromise the purity and results of subsequent fluid samples, leading to potential contamination of the following volumes.
All our products embody advanced technology designed to minimize dead volumes and prevent carryover. We meticulously design our valves with a precise roundly shaped 90-degree angle, ensuring that there are no unswept volumes, which guarantees the elimination of dead volume.
Here is an example of how AMF can push the limit of carryover volume and bring it to a minimum with its unique design.
Eliminating dead volumes and reducing carryover are vital for achieving accurate dosing and consistent results, crucial for advancing research in life sciences, diagnostics, and drug discovery. Integrating AMF’s microfluidic technology helps reduce cross-contamination and ensures efficient resource use in a variety of scientific studies.
Choosing AMF’s microfluidic solutions offers multiple benefits:
At Advanced Microfluidics SA, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of microfluidic technologies. Our product range exemplifies our dedication to enhancing precision, efficiency, and reliability in your experiment. Revolutionize your research and development efforts by embracing the future of microfluidics with AMF.
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