Experimental Characterization of Induction Electrohydrodynamics for Integrated Microchannel Pumping

Microscale fluid flow using traveling-wave induction electrohydrodynamics is demonstrated. A three-phase traveling-wave device fabricated for the experiments provides a temporally and spatially varying electric field which helps induce ions in a fluid that is subjected to a temperature gradient. These ions are moved as the traveling wave propagates, resulting in a drag force being exerted on the surrounding fluid. Repulsion-type electrohydrodynamic flow is visualized in a microchannel of depth 50 μm, and results are presented in terms of velocity measurements using particle image velocimetry. The effects of voltage, traveling-wave frequency and the addition of externally applied heat are demonstrated and heat transfer capabilities of the micropump are discussed. (Some figures in this article are in colour only in the electronic version)