Fluidic components based on ferrofluids

The miniaturisation of steps like synthesis or analysis of liquids or gases requires microchannels,-pumps and-valves. Here a microvalve is presented which uses a ferrofluid as sealing medium. Compared to mechanical valves this has the advantage of total adaptability to any geometry even allowing the hermetic sealing of channels or grooves with changing cross-section. For the movement of the ferrofluid a coil driven external magnet is used. An actuator using a magnet, driven by microcoils makes the main microfluidic system independent of the actuator and can therefore allow a cheap, disposable system.