Filling of Parallel Microchannel Networks: Analysis of the De-synchronization

Abstract

Point-of-care (POC) reaction microchambers are basis features of biotechnological devices. Most of the time biotechnological devices comprise multiple reaction chambers, in order to achieve simultaneously as many reactions as possible, enhancing the efficiency of these devices. Parallelization requires the precise filling and loading of these chambers, and the best synchronization is searched for. De-synchronization triggers the formation of air bubbles and leads to anomalous functioning of the device. It has been observed that synchronized filling of microchannels and fluidic networks is often an experimental challenge. In fact, this experimental difficulty directly stems from the conceptual approach of the design of the network. In this work we theoretically investigate the filling of networks, driven by the injection pressure of a pump. The additional effect of capillary forces is also taken into account. Experimental results are compared with the theoretical model. Rules for better synchronization are enounced