Module Code - Title:
ME6252
-
BIOMICROFLUIDICS
Year Last Offered:
2025/6
Hours Per Week:
Grading Type:
N
Prerequisite Modules:
Rationale and Purpose of the Module:
This module is being created as part of a fifth year in Biomedical Engineering. The module is a follow-on from Microfluidics. The purpose of the module is to extend the students learning from microfluidics 1 into biological assays and how that microfluidics can be used to perform biological experiments including diagnostics.
Syllabus:
Multiphase flows in microfluidics, microfluidics biological assays including cell biology, design of microfluidics instruments and devices.
Learning Outcomes:
Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
Demonstrate an understanding of the difference between single phase microfluidics and multiphase microfluidics, in both gas-liquid flows and liquid-liquid flows.
Compare and contrast the velocity profiles for single phase and multiphase flows.
Predict the pressure drop, flow rate and velocity for multiphase flows in microfluidic devices.
Articulate and use Bretherton's law to determine film thickness in liquid-liquid flows.
Derive the relevant non-dimensional groups that govern multiphase flows in fluidic channels.
Describe and explain commonly used biological assays that are used in diagnostics.
Apply this knowledge to design a microfluidic device or instrument for a diagnostic assay.
Describe and demonstrate an understanding of the potential for microfluidics to enhance and enable biological assays.
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
Appreciate the contribution and the limitations of engineering to the development of biological assays.
Value the importance of interdisciplinary work to further scientific progress.
Psychomotor (Physical Skills)
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
N/A
How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:
The module is taught predominantly with lectures, backed up with Active learning tutorials, where students work through sample problems to develop their Knowledge of microfluidic applications.
To promote earlier engagement with content and to develop this Knowledge, in-class quizzes and small tasks will be used. The aim of the Active learning tutorials is to stimulate the student to be Proactive, and work through the sample problems.
As part of a Collaborative group project, students will be asked to Create a microfluidic device or instrument for use as a diagnostic assay. This will allow them to use their skills to integrate both biology and fluidic engineering on a platform. Furthermore the students will explore the consequences of their device from an ethical and Responsible perspective.
Finally the students will articulate their findings as written lab report and presentation which develops both their technical writing and communication skills.
Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):
Prime Texts:
Colin S.
(2010)
Microfluidics
, Wiley
Bruus H (2008)
Theoretical Microfluidics
, Oxford University Press
Other Relevant Texts:
Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:
Semester(s) Module is Offered:
Spring
Module Leader:
Tara.Dalton@ul.ie