Agile Manufacturing |
Laminated Microcomponents
Description: PNNL is developing a low-cost microfabrication process
technology involving lamination and diffusion bonding of thin foil sections
to form microchannel fluidics and gas flow components. The process is
particularly well suited for fabrication of microscale energy and chemical
systems, including microchannel chemical reactors, combustors, solvent
separation units, heat exchangers, and fluid and gas flow systems. To
date the laminated components have been fabricated from stainless steel,
copper, and aluminum. With this method, perfectly smooth walled microchannels
having virtually any aspect ratio or complex shape, can be fabricated
with either an open edge or with the microchannels completely enclosed
within a solid block of metal. Channel widths can be as small as 12 µm
and have aspect ratios greater than 800. The diffusion bonding process
forms a sealed monolithic unit. This concept is not limited to simple
microchannel components. Components capable of mixing multiple materials
with multiple fluid and gas flow paths can be fabricated just as easily
as the simple single channel device. It is also possible to integrate
membranes, catalysts, and coatings into the laminated components. Complex
geometries are straightforward. Curved sections with curved channels to
fit pipes or cylindrical reactor elements for localized heating and cooling
can readily be fabricated. The fabrication process is mass production
amenable, easily automated, and uses low cost materials.
Point of Contact: Peter M Martin (509) 375-2076 |