Ionic liquid microdroplet manipulation by electrowetting-on-dielectric for on/off diffusion control

This article presents a proof-of-concept of a device able to control (ON/OFF) gas diffusion through a perforated membrane. The microfabricated system is based on electrowetting-on-dielectric (EWOD) actuation of ionic liquid (IL) microdroplets and can be electrically toggled from an open to a closed state, in which microdroplets cover or uncover the membrane openings, respectively. The system is designed to be integrated with liquid-electrolyte-based electrochemical gas sensors, to extend their lifetime by reducing electrolyte evaporation and allowing recalibration. The realized device was proven to limit gas diffusion and water evaporation through perforated portions of thin membranes on command.