Professor Jim McGrath has received a Health Sciences Center for Computational Innovation (HSCCI) Grant for his project, "Database of Fluid Flow in Nanomembrane-based Microdevices." This project seeks to build a database of computational 3D flow profiles for microfluidic devices featuring the laboratory's silicon nanomembranes. Nanomembranes are ultrathin porous membranes with orders of magnitude higher permeability than conventional membranes. A two-channel, microfluidic device with a 5.4 mm square membrane 'chip' separating the channels has become a standard format for multiple projects in the McGrath laboratory. Specifically, the device format is used for: 1) benchtop evaluations of toxin clearance in hemodialysis, 2) capture of exosomes from raw biofluids in tangential flow, 3) a 'tissue-chip' mimetic of the microvasculature. Future microfluidic applications of this device include: 1) enhancement of DNA detection by a novel dual membrane system, and 2) an electrodialysis system for desalinization.
The Health Sciences Center for Computational Innovation (HSCCI) facilitates access to high-performance computational resources for biomedical research. HSCCI is the result of a partnership between the University of Rochester, IBM, and New York State. The University seeks to develop the center further through corporate partnerships, institutional support, federal research grants, and New York State programs.
2D COMSOL simulation of flow near membrane (yellow). Flow is left to right on top with some transmembrane flow. Fluid streamlines are shown as black lines.