Traceable Flowrate Measurements for Microfluidic Systems

The rapid development and uptake of microfluidic technologies operating at ultra-low flowrates has propelled the demand for new flow sensors and flow measurement capabilities. This has opened discussions on requirements for traceable flowrate measurements to ensure accuracy and consistency in emerging ultra-low flowrate technologies. This paper presents the findings of a wide-ranging consultation on the academic and industrial requirements within the UK for traceable measurements of ultra-low flowrates employed within microfluidic systems. Areas covered include device calibration, level of accuracy required in flow measurements, applicability of CFD and the view of National Measurement Institutes.