Microfluidics

Surface switches based on conducting polymers can be used to control the flow of liquids in microfluidic systems. The surface switches are used as valves, with low wettability in the pristine state, in the fluidic system. By applying a potential to the surface switch, the wettability of the surface is increased, and the liquid is allowed to flow through the valve. Another benefit with conducting polymers is that they are processable from solution and common printing techniques such as inkjet can therefore be used during production, which allows for low cost manufacturing.