Abstract Scope |
Many processes in both nature and industry occur at the microscale and involve complex multiphase interfaces. Most microporous media, both natural and man-made, is stochastic and difficult to predict or control reliably. On the other hand, conventional microfluidic devices are often limited to enclosed channels and planar geometries, hindering their usefulness in multiphase processes. We present a novel platform based on capillary fluid flow in ordered 3D lattices [1]. Using deterministic cell and lattice design, combined with additive manufacturing methods that provide access to length scales < 100 um, we can fabricate complex structures with tuned porosity and functionalities. This approach enables selective placement and direction of fluid flow into predetermined continuous paths through the structure, as well as optimizing for the occurrence of gas-liquid, liquid-liquid, or gas-liquid-solid interfaces. This work performed under the auspices of the U.S. Department of Energy by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344. LLNL-ABS-778327. |