Effective Seals for Magnetic Shape Memory Microfluidic Pumps: Pressure vs. Elastomer

Magnetic shape memory (MSM) alloys, such as Nickel Manganese Gallium, can be used to create micropumps. Ni-Mn-Ga can undergo a strain of up to 6%. This magnetically actuated shape change transports fluid across the surface of the element, creating a microfluidic pump. In previous research, we altered the micropump production process so the elements were precast in elastomer before placed into the pump casing. By curing the elastomer before it came in contact with the pump housing, we aim to prevent uncontrolled elastomer flow from clogging the pump channel. Our research tested two methods of sealing pumps in an attempt to make pump manufacturing more consistent. In the first, we sealed the precast element to the top plate by using pressure applied with screws. In the second method, we glued the top plates and precast elements together with uncured elastomer. Sealing with elastomer allowed more control in keeping the fluid contained in the pumping channel, however the seal was not perfect and the pumps still leaked. Using elastomer, or some similar substance, seems to be the most successful method of sealing pumps thus far, however, progress still needs to be made in making the seal more consistent and controlled