An Overview of Electrospray Applications in MEMS and Microfluidic Systems

Integrating electrospray into microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) and microfluidic systems supports applications in diverse fields from biotechnology to aerospace. Electrospray also functions as a production tool, allowing for novel methods of MEMS fabrication. This review covers the three most significant applications of electrospray in MEMS and microfluidic systems technology: 1) as an integral part of a microfluidic device, most notably electrospray emitters for coupling a microfluidic chip to a mass spectrometer; 2) as a method for fabricating and manufacturing MEMS; and 3) for micropropulsion in aerospace applications using MEMS-based emitters. Perspectives on future research directions and opportunities are provided.