Microreactors with integrated UV/Vis spectroscopic detection for online process analysis under segmented flow

Lab Chip. 2013 Dec 21;13(24):4855-63. doi: 10.1039/c3lc50876e.

Abstract

Combining reaction and detection in multiphase microfluidic flow is becoming increasingly important for accelerating process development in microreactors. We report the coupling of UV/Vis spectroscopy with microreactors for online process analysis under segmented flow conditions. Two integration schemes are presented: one uses a cross-type flow-through cell subsequent to a capillary microreactor for detection in the transmission mode; the other uses embedded waveguides on a microfluidic chip for detection in the evanescent wave field. Model experiments reveal the capabilities of the integrated systems in real-time concentration measurements and segmented flow characterization. The application of such integration for process analysis during gold nanoparticle synthesis is demonstrated, showing its great potential in process monitoring in microreactors operated under segmented flow.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Gold / chemistry
  • Metal Nanoparticles / chemistry
  • Microfluidic Analytical Techniques / methods*
  • Online Systems*
  • Spectrophotometry, Ultraviolet / methods*
  • Systems Integration*
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Gold