In realizing sophisticated micro analytical devices, controlled solution transport in microfluidic channels is indispensable. The procedures have predominantly been conducted using external pumps (or pressure source) and valves. However, because of this, the entire setups become very bulky, although the chips may be small. If the control of solution transport is realized using integrated microfluidic components, it will accelerate automation and realization of user-friendly devices. Apart from chemical analysis, realization of artificial lives that move by direct conversion of chemical energy to mechanical energy is becoming a hot topic. Independent autonomous microfluidic systems that can control chemical reactions in a coordinated manner can also be critical components in these devices. In this study, we attempted to realize such autonomous microfluidic devices by integrating simple switchable hydrophobic microvalves that employ a conducting polymer and pressure changes by electrochemical production and shrinkage of hydrogen bubbles.
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