Abstract: Microfluidic devices having an electrowetting configuration and an optimized droplet actuation surface are provided. The devices include a conductive substrate having a dielectric layer, a hydrophobic layer covalently bonded to the dielectric layer, and a first electrode electrically coupled to the dielectric layer and configured to be connected to a voltage source. The microfluidic devices also include a second electrode configured to be connected to the voltage source. The hydrophobic layer features self-associating molecules covalently bonded to a surface of the dielectric layer in a manner that produces a densely-packed monolayer that resists intercalation and or penetration by polar molecules or species.

Abstract: Methods are provided for producing insulated glazing units. The insulated glazing unit includes a first pane including a first outer edge, a second pane that overlaps the first pane and that includes a second outer edge, an outer edge sealing spacer arrangement that seals and maintains an inter-pane space between the first pane and the second pane, the outer edge sealing spacer arrangement including: a seat that receives the first outer edge and the second outer edge and that extends along the first outer edge and the second outer edge, a shoe that receives the seat, and a coupling between the seat and the shoe configured to maintain the seat within the shoe.

Abstract: A laser system may include a first laser source configured to output a first laser energy at a first wavelength, a second laser source configured to output a second laser energy at a second wavelength, and a combiner configured to receive the first and second laser energies and output a dual-wavelength laser energy. The first and second wavelengths are different, and first and second laser energies are output simultaneously. Related systems and methods are also disclosed.