Chemistry in Microfluidic Channels
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[1] Northwestern University
Northwestern University
Township of Evanston, Estados Unidos
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- Localización: Journal of chemical education, ISSN 0021-9584, Vol. 88, Nº 4, 2011, págs. 461-464
- Idioma: inglés
- Texto completo no disponible (Saber más ...)
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Resumen
General chemistry introduces principles such as acid−base chemistry, mixing, and precipitation that are usually demonstrated in bulk solutions. In this laboratory experiment, we describe how chemical reactions can be performed in a microfluidic channel to show advanced concepts such as laminar fluid flow and controlled precipitation. Three sets of solution-pairs are explored: (i) a visualization of laminar flow at the interface between two dye-colored fluid streams; (ii) an acid−base reaction at the fluid−fluid interface; and (iii) a precipitation reaction of calcium carbonate (calcite) crystals at the fluid−fluid interface. These laboratory exercises provide a simple and effective means to expose students to the unique physical behaviors that result under confined flow.
