Design and development of novel polymer based microsensors and microactuators

Abstract

This research focuses on the development of cost-effective microtransducers using polymer technology that could be used for specific applications. The scope of this research includes developing a sensor for monitoring structural health of reinforced concrete and a novel actuator for microfluidic and renewable-energy applications. The corrosion sensor works on the principle of skin effect and the resistance characteristics are studied for a frequency range of 10 kHz to 200 kHz. Proof-of-concept is performed for the sensor to be embedded in the rebar. The work on the microfluidic actuator involves the design, simulation and fabrication of a microvalve based on pH-sensitive hydrogel which is naturally closed when consuming no power. The swelling/deswelling of the hydrogel in basic/acidic buffer medium is used as the actuation mechanism for the microvalve. The hydrogel expansion and contraction in the control channel causes the valve to open and close with sub-hour response time. The fabrication uses replica molding and photolithography techniques.