| abstract |
Thermal microvalves and their method of use include a fusible material (40) positioned in a microchannel (44). A heater (42) melts the material (40) which is then forced by air pressure (46) into a second channel (48) where it cools and solidifies, blocking flow. Alternatively, the melted and solidified material (40) can hold a diaphragm of a diaphragm valve in place, eliminating the need for continued applied force on the diaphragm. |