Development and characterization of a cartridge-type pneumatic dispenser with an integrated backflow stopper

Abstract

This paper presents the development and characterization of a simple yet effective cartridge-type (i.e. an integrated liquid reservoir) pneumatic dispensing system. The unique design was a backflow stopper inside the dispenser to function as a flow restrictor. A thin flexible membrane with computer-controlled pneumatic actuation is used to produce various droplet volumes. The detailed fabrication is explained, and systematic characterization verified the performance of our device. The current device configuration can dispense droplet volumes from 100 nL to 400 nL by controlling the pressure applied to the flexible membrane.