Microsystems for Discovery and Development – Next Steps

Miniaturized continuous flow systems for chemical synthesis and analysis have evolved significantly over the past decade from their initial roots in micromachining to flexible configurable systems used in organic chemistry, ‘flow chemistry’, and in specialized systems for  energy conversion and catalysis characterization.  The characteristics and capabilities of flow systems are demonstrated with cases studies drawn from multistep chemical synthesis relevant to fine chemicals and pharmaceuticals, synthesis of nano-materials, and characterization of heterogeneous catalysts.  Emphasis is placed on applications that are enabled by small flow systems and are difficult to perform by conventional techniques. Finally, challenges in applications of the technology and opportunities for new insight gained from use of microsystems are discussed.