Microscale pumps that provide precise control over flow rate without the aid of batteries or electronics and that are capable of turning �on� in response to specific analytes in solution, such as an enzyme, are needed for use in many types of smart micro- and nano-scale devices, such as implantable medical devices.  The ideal pump for such applications should be capable of functioning autonomously, with pumping action controlled both by the presence and concentration of a specific analyte.  Herein we describe the first examples of microscale pumps that display these desirable characteristics.  These pumps consist of insoluble polymer films that depolymerize to release soluble monomeric products when exposed to a specific analyte.  Products formed as a result of the depolymerization reaction amplify the signal and create a concentration gradient that pumps fluids (and insoluble particles) away from the bulk polymer due to a diffusiophoretic mechanism.  These pumps are capable of turning �on� in response to specific analytes and are tunable to respond to a variety of analytes, ranging from small molecules to enzymes.

Self-powered microscale pumps based on analyte-initiated depolymerization/degradation reactions

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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