Flow sensor for microfluidic applications — Based on standard PWB technology

In this paper the design and implementation of a microfluidic flow sensor constructed on standard PWB (printed wiring board) and PDMS (Polydimethylsiloxane) technology is presented. The measurement principle is based on convective heat transfer. Calculations and computer aided simulations were performed to find optimal working conditions. A pressure-driven measurement system was built to characterize the device. The measurements confirmed that the flow sensor is able to work from 1.6 ml/min up to 10 ml/min range.