Abstract: A method to achieve controlled conductivity in microfluidic devices, and a device formed thereby. The method comprises forming a microchannel or a well in an insulating material, and ion implanting at least one region of the insulating material at or adjacent the microchannel or well to increase conductivity of the region.

Abstract: A method to achieve controlled conductivity in microfluidic devices, and a device formed thereby. The method comprises forming a microchannel or a well in an insulating material, and ion implanting at least one region of the insulating material at or adjacent the microchannel or well to increase conductivity of the region.

Abstract: Multilayered microfluidic devices include structures that are used to align elements that make up the devices. Such elements include additional substrate layers, external sampling elements, and the like. In one embodiment, a multilayered microfluidic device includes first and second substrate layers attached one to the other, each substrate layer having a notch in an edge of the substrate layer. The notches are positioned such that they circumscribe a single opening into which an alignment key is inserted. In a method of fabricating a multilayered microfluidic device, notches are provided in first and second substrate layers, the notches circumscribing a single opening when the substrate layers are mated together. An alignment key is inserted into the single opening, and the substrate layers are bonded together. The alignment key may be, for example, a shim or a capillary element.

Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to improved methods, structures and systems for interfacing microfluidic devices with ancillary systems that are used in conjunction with such devices. These systems typically include control and monitoring systems (620) for controlling the performance of the processes carried out within the device, e.g., monitoring and controlling environmental conditions and monitoring results of the processes performed, e.g., detection.