Low cost device for precise microliter range liquid dispensing

In this work we present the fabrication and testing of a thermally actuated one-shot liquid dispenser, which actuation is based on highly expandable microspheres. We show an uncomplicated, fully functional, low cost device for use in medical disposables, e.g. transdermal systems based on microneedles. All device components are made out of low cost materials and fabrication processes have the potential for high volume batch manufacturing. The device utilizes the properties of the expandable microspheres to form a heat insulating layer to the delivered liquid. Moreover, it does not require any feed-back or complicated flow metering. The device was successfully tested showing a mean dispensed liquid of 101 /spl mu/l with a relative standard deviation of 3.2% and with a maximum temperature of 59/spl deg/C in the liquid during actuation. No back-flow was observed for the device.