Abstract: A splitter for multi-layer microfluidic devices is provided. The splitter includes multiple forked channels defined in two or more device layers. The forked channels communicate fluidically at overlap regions. The overlap regions, in combination with symmetrical channel geometries balance the fluidic impedance in the system and promote even splitting.

Abstract: A thermoelectric semiconductor element includes a first section and a second section. A heat path of the first section is greater than a heat path of the second section.

Abstract: A semiconductor thermoelectric module includes a first semiconductor element formed from a first composition. A second semiconductor element is formed from a second composition. The second semiconductor element is connected electrically in series with the first semiconductor element via an electrical conductor, and the second composition differs from the first composition.

Abstract: A microfluidic flow control device includes a fluidic chamber, a first and a second microfluidic channel, at least one sealing surface between the first and the second channels, and a floating element disposed within the chamber. The floating element is capable of intermittently engaging the sealing surface, and movement of the floating element affects fluid flow between the first channel and the second channel. The floating element may be moved by fluid pressure, gravity, or an applied force such as a magnetic field. Multiple flow control regions may be integrated into a flow control system.

Abstract: A turbine engine system includes a turbine engine that burns fuel and generates heat exhaust. A thermoelectric generator is located downstream from the turbine engine. The thermoelectric generator has a first side facing the heat exhaust. A cooling module is coupled to a second side of the thermoelectric generator to provide cooling to the second side. A pump is provided to pump a cooling fluid through the cooling module.

Abstract: Substantially sealed microfluidic devices for performing pipettorless ratiometric dilution are provided. In one embodiment, valves are disposed between and permit selective fluid communication between multiple chambers of a series of chambers. In another embodiment, a mixing chamber receives fluid from an inlet port and is in donative fluid communication with multiple receiving chambers each having a small volume than the mixing chamber. Active mixing means may be provided, including moveable magnetic elements, sonication, and mixing channels coupled with fluid transport means. A material transport system may be used with a non-electrokinetic pipettorless dilution system for transporting sample, diluent, and combinations thereof within the device.

Abstract: A splitter for multi-layer microfluidic devices is provided. The splitter includes multiple forked channels defined in two or more device layers. The forked channels communicate fluidically at overlap regions. The overlap regions, in combination with symmetrical channel geometries balance the fluidic impedance in the system and promote even splitting.

Abstract: A microfluidic flow control device includes a fluidic chamber, a first and a second microfluidic channel, at least one sealing surface between the first and the second channels, and a floating element disposed within the chamber. The floating element is capable of intermittently engaging the sealing surface, and movement of the floating element affects fluid flow between the first channel and the second channel. The floating element may be moved by fluid pressure, gravity, or an applied force such as a magnetic field. Multiple flow control regions may be integrated into a flow control system.

Abstract: An at least ternary metal alloy of the formula AB.sub.(Z-Y) X.sub.(Y) is disclosed. In this formula, A is selected from the rare earth elements, B is selected from the elements of Groups 8, 9, and 10 of the Periodic Table of the Elements, and X includes at least one of the following: antimony, arsenic, germanium, tin or bismuth. Z is greater than or equal to 4.8 and less than or equal to 6.0. Y is greater than 0 and less than 1. Ternary or higher-order substitutions to the base AB.sub.5 alloys that form strong kinetic interactions with the predominant metals in the base metal hydride are used to form metal alloys with high structural integrity after multiple cycles of hydrogen sorption.

Abstract: An at least ternary metal alloy of the formula, AB.sub.(5-Y)X(.sub.y), is claimed. In this formula, A is selected from the rare earth elements, B is selected from the elements of groups 8, 9, and 10 of the periodic table of the elements, and X includes at least one of the following: antimony, arsenic, and bismuth. Ternary or higher-order substitutions, to the base AB.sub.5 alloys, that form strong kinetic interactions with the predominant metals in the base metal hydride are used to form metal alloys with high structural integrity after multiple cycles of hydrogen sorption.