SPIE - Education Micro- and Nanofluidics - Technology and Applications SC532

This course will provide a broad overview on all aspects of micro- and nanofluidic technology starting with the history over one decade of microfluidics and describing the various fabrication technologies for miniaturized devices in polymers, glass, silicon and metals. A main focus is the application of microfluidic components in biotechnology (e.g. separation techniques, PCR, Lab-on-a-Chip etc.) and chemistry (e.g. micro reactors, micro mixers etc.) and a special microfluidic tool box suited for these applications. Commercialization strategies and business models of microfluidic companies will be covered as well as the hot topics of "killer applications", and the need for standardization. The aspect of becoming even smaller and the challenges and limitations of nanofluidics will have a special focus. The course will conclude with hands-on tests using microfluidic devices, including a water and milk analysis with chip based capillary electrophoresis.