Microfluidic high speed pinch valve

A novel disposable modular microfluidic high speed pinch valve has been developed, which allows dosing of single droplets in the low nano liter range at high frequencies. A high pressure resistance was found, while a low internal volume gives opportunity to handle expensive or rare fluids. Its simple structure provides the implementation on a very small scale. A direct integration in biochips or microfluidic systems is possible as well as a stand-alone solution connected to flexible tubes or pipes. The fluidic properties of the valve have been determined. The fatigue resistances of lever and tube have also been verified. New molded tube geometries allow manufacturing of multi way pinch valves for the first time. Using appropriate actuator-systems a continuous regulation of throughput is just as possible as simple open/closed states.