Characterization of Micro Fluidic Devices by Optical Measurements

Micro fluidic devices are successfully in use for several applications in chemical engineering and biotechnology. Nevertheless, there is still no breakthrough for micro process engineering because of a lack in understanding the mechanisms for local hydrodynamics and mass transfer on micro scales. Micro Particle Image Velocimetry (μ-PIV) combined with Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM) enables the measurement of three-dimensional flow and concentration fields in micro devices for common stationary cases. By quantitative analysis of pressure drops, mixing qualities and residence time distributions an adjustment of micro reactor devices for the demands of chemical and biochemical reactions becomes possible.