Demonstration of Multiphase Microfluidics for Chemical Analysis Systems (FORGE)

The Multiphase Microfluidics for Chemical Analysis Systems demonstration aims to help researchers assess multiphase reservoirs for sample mixing and bubble migration. The experiment apparatus utilizes reservoir shapes and a high voltage electric field to help drive the gas phase to a desired location and prevent bubbles from blocking outlet/inlet channels. A mixing filter in one reservoir and a high-voltage electrode in the other could potentially help researchers understand the occurrence of unexpected phase behavior.

Problem Statement Microfluidic systems are an established approach to moving small volumes of fluid for precision chemical analysis via primarily capillary driven flow and are hence insensitive to gravity. However, in some cases, both the gas and liquid phase need to be present at the same time in a reservoir. These multiphase reservoirs are sensitive to gravity, and technologies need to be designed and proven for these multiphase applications. This technology seeks to address that challenge by designing the shape and surface wetting properties of the interior volume of the reservoirs to promote bubble migration to desired regions.

Technology Maturation This work aims to advance the state of the art by demonstrating that end-to-end fluidic systems, including multiphase reservoirs, are suitable for chemical analysis missions at any gravity level. In combination with other planned environmental testing, this will raise the system technology readiness level (TRL) to 6.

Summary of February 4, 2025 Flight Test
FORGE met many of its goals during the P14 flight. FORGE was able to execute its fluidic protocol and capture an image of the system in its initial state. Critically, FORGE was able to empty all the reservoirs and return them to an air-filled state. This last step is important to prepare instruments for potential cold storage at freezing temperatures when not in use during a robotic space mission. It is also important as a method for resetting the system when operating in the case that a bubble shows up in the wrong place and is not otherwise easily dislodged.

The Multiphase Microfluidics for Chemical Analysis Systems demonstration aims to help researchers assess multiphase reservoirs for sample mixing and bubble migration. The experiment apparatus utilizes reservoir shapes and a high-voltage electric field to help drive the gas phase to a desired location and prevent bubbles from blocking outlet/inlet channels. Testing the apparatus in relevant gravity conditions will help researchers test for the occurrence of unexpected phase behavior. This has the potential to benefit NASA missions and the commercial space industry.

Future Customers
· NASA
· Commercial resource prospectors

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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