First-generation device for separation of ethyl alcohol from water. The ceramic component is electrically heated by two 20-watt heaters. The solution enters at the right, alcohol vapors exit at the top, and the depleted water exits at the left. This setup produces a steady, continuous flame for as long as the liquid solution is supplied to the device. It's safer than traditional batch separation processes because only a small amount of material is being heated at any time. It starts in less than a minute and the flame self-extinguishes within 5 seconds after input flow is shut off.

Microfluidic separator device, backlit to show internal channels. This ceramic material is naturally translucent. 107 x 35 x 1.6 mm.

Microfluidic separator device, backlit with push-fit fittings installed. These are standard brass fittings with the threads cut off and a small step machined into the back so they fit into the recess provided on the part. They are secured with a two-part epoxy.

Microfluidic heating / reaction device, showing internal multi-level criss-cross structures (left), and the complete closed package with barbed brass fittings installed. 68 x 56 x 2.4 mm.

Side view of a 316L stainless steel cross-flow heat exchanger prototype. Features 4,500 channels 50 microns wide by 750 microns deep in a 75 x 75 x 18 mm package.