Abstract

A micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) device is provided, along with means for its fabrication and operation for microfluidic and/or biomicrofluidic applications. The MEMS device includes a substrate, optional electrodes on the substrate, a patterned structure on the substrate, the patterned structure having a fluidic microchannel aligned with one or more of the optional electrodes, an encapsulation membrane covering the microchannel, and an optional reactive layer deposited over the electrode in the microchannel. MEMS devices of preferred embodiments permit a leak-tight seal to be formed around the microchannel and fluidic interconnects established for robust operation of fluidics-based processes. MEMS devices of other preferred embodiments permit reversible attachment and separation of the encapsulation membrane relative to the patterned structure.

U.S. Patent and Trademark Office Description

PTO

Inventor(s)

Reza Ghodssi, Gary Rubloff, Jung Jin Park, Mark Kastantin, Sheng Li, Li-Qun Wu, Hyunmin Yi, Theresa Valentine

Date Issued

05/20/2008

Patent No.

7,375,404

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