Micro-evaporators for kinetic exploration of phase diagrams

TL;DR

This paper introduces micro-evaporators based on pervaporation microfluidic devices that enable precise control of concentration processes, facilitating the kinetic exploration of phase diagrams through experiments and modeling.

Contribution

It presents a novel microfluidic platform combining experimental and modeling approaches for studying phase behavior in concentrated solutions.

Findings

Quantitative description of advection-diffusion in concentration fields

Demonstration of device versatility for various solution types

Potential for universal kinetic exploration of phase formation

Abstract

We use pervaporation-based microfluidic devices to concentrate species in aqueous solutions with spatial and temporal control of the process. Using experiments and modelling, we quantitatively describe the advection-diffusion behavior of the concentration field of various solutions (electrolytes, colloids, etc) and demonstrate the potential of these devices as universal tools for the kinetic exploration of the phases and textures that form upon concentration.