Abstract: Microfluidic nozzle array devices are provided with the body of each device having at least one nozzle extending outwardly from one surface of the body. Each nozzle includes a tip opening having a diameter of equal to or less than about 100 &mgr;m, preferably 50 &mgr;m, and more preferably 20 &mgr;m and an outer diameter of nozzle is equal to or less than about 150 &mgr;m, preferably 100 &mgr;m, and more preferably 50 &mgr;m. The microfluidic nozzle array devices are fabricated using an injection molding process and find particular utility in a wide range of applications, including but not limited to nanospray/electrospray applications, mass spectrometer applications, optical spectrometry applications, spotting applications (i.e., DNA or protein array), etc.

Abstract: A polymer-based microfluidic device and its manufacturing methods. This microfluidic device is suitable for chromatographic and electrophoretic separations in which the detection of the components in the fluid is by means of ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy. The device further comprises at least one cooling channel adjacent the separation channel, said cooling channel conducting a cooling fluid through the device for removing heat from the the separation channel. At least one section of the separation channel has an increased cross-sectional dimension with respect to other sections of said channel to provide an increased optical path length when the device is used in an ultraviolet detection arrangement.

Abstract: A member for holding at least one microfluidic device and providing an interface between the at least one microfluidic device and a second device is provided. The at least one microfluidic device has a plurality of reservoirs formed therein and the member includes a body having an upper face and a lower face and a plurality of open well members formed therein. Each well member is defined by a well wall and includes a first end and an opposing second end, wherein the second end is configured and dimensioned for frictionally engaging the at least one microfluidic device such that at least some of the open well members and the reservoirs of the microfluidic device align with one another. An apparatus for interfacing with a mass spectrometer to perform a nanospray application is also provided.

Abstract: A microfluidic device for achieving protein separation based on charge and molecular weight or size is provided and includes: (1) a first substrate having a raised structure protruding from a first face of the first substrate such that the raised structure partially defines a microfluidic cavity; (2) a second substrate having a raised section protruding from a first face of the second section, wherein the raised section has a shape and dimensions complementary to the microfluidic cavity to permit the raised section to be received between the raised structure to enclose the microfluidic cavity. The raised section seals with the raised structure in a liquid tight manner while still permitting removal of the first and second substrates from one another.

Abstract: Microfluidic nozzle array devices are provided with the body of each device having at least one nozzle extending outwardly from one surface of the body. Each nozzle includes a tip opening having a diameter of equal to or less than about 100 &mgr;m, preferably 50 &mgr;m, and more preferably 20 &mgr;m and an outer diameter of nozzle is equal to or less than about 150 &mgr;m, preferably 100 &mgr;m, and more preferably 50 &mgr;m. The microfluidic nozzle array devices are fabricated using an injection molding process and find particular utility in a wide range of applications, including but not limited to nanospray/electrospray applications, mass spectrometer applications, optical spectrometry applications, spotting applications (i.e., DNA or protein array), etc.

Abstract: A microfluidic device is provided and comprises a device that is assembled from segments of microfluidic features using built-in alignment features, such as the raised walls of the channels or protrusion/recess pairs to comprise channels, nozzles, optical detectors, distillation columns, etc., to form a device for a specific application, such as an electrospray-mass spectrometer interface. Some of the segments can be of standard dimensions with standard alignment features so that the user may assemble microfluidic devices for specific applications using standard prefabricated segments as part thereof.

Abstract: Devices containing microfluidic features suitable for use as microfluidic devices or as masters for replicating polymeric microfluidic devices are provided. The devices provide unique design features provided by ink-jet fabrication methods.

Abstract: Microfluidic devices that form layered structures provide a liquid handling interface with external devices as well as reduce consumption of sample and buffer in analytical operations. These microfluidic devices are suitable for operations designed for lab-on-a-chip functions. The microfluidic devices accomplish sample injection in a single channel without intersecting channels on the same plane. These devices may be formed through injection-molding fabrication methods.

Abstract: Improved fabrication processes for preparation of nanometer scale structures wherein a polymeric coating is applied to the substrate prior to fabrication are disclosed.