MetalFlow Flowcell Demo

This 3D-printed model illustrates the core function of the MetalFlow microfluidic chip, a system designed to extract valuable metals from e-waste leachate using droplet-based liquid-liquid extraction.Leachate In (Top Left, Green):Acidic solution containing dissolved metals from shredded e-waste enters the chip.Solvent In (Bottom Left, Yellow):An immiscible organic extractant, designed to selectively bind to metal ions, is introduced.Middle Channel (Reaction Zone):The green and yellow droplets flow in alternating sequence through the chip.As they interact, metal ions transfer from the leachate into the extractant droplets — visually represented by the magnet, symbolizing how metals are "pulled" from one phase into another.Extract Out (Bottom Right, Yellow):The extractant, now carrying the recovered metals, exits for further processing (e.g., stripping and recovery).Raffinate Out (Top Right, Green):The depleted leachate (raffinate) is separated and exits the system.Lever Mechanis