Microfabrication technologies and micro-flow devices for chemical and bio-chemical micro flow systems

Micromachining, based on photolithography commonly used in integrated circuit technology, has been applied to miniaturize chemical and bio-chemical analysis systems. Micro/miniaturized total analysis systems (/spl mu/TAS), developed so far, can be classified into two groups. One is a MEMS-type system using pressurized flow by mechanical flow control devices, for example, microvalves and micropumps. The other uses electrically driven liquid handling without mechanical elements. Typically electroosmotic flow has been used so far. Planar capillary electrophoresis (chip CE) type systems are the common application of this method. Microfabrication technologies and micro flow control devices applied to the chemical and biochemical micro flow systems are reviewed.