This inventor holds 3 USPTO granted patents. Top assignees: Sandia National Laboratories, Sandia Corporation. Active years: 2004-2009.
Location History:
- Pleasanton, CA (US) (2004 - 2006)
- Humacao, PR (US) (2009)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2004-2009
Title: Innovations by Alexander Artau
Introduction
Alexander Artau is a notable inventor based in Humacao, Puerto Rico. He has made significant contributions to the field of microfluidic devices, holding a total of 3 patents. His work focuses on developing advanced materials and methods that enhance the functionality of these devices.
Latest Patents
One of Artau's latest patents is titled "Polymeric salt bridges for conducting electric current in microfluidic devices." This invention discloses a 'cast-in-place' monolithic microporous polymer salt bridge designed for conducting electrical current in microfluidic devices. The polymeric salt bridges are formed in situ within capillaries or microchannels, utilizing a formulation that includes monomer, suitable cross-linkers, solvent, and a thermal or radiation-responsive initiator. The formulation is strategically placed, and suitable radiation, such as UV light, is employed to polymerize the salt bridge at the desired structural location. These salt bridges possess sufficient porosity to facilitate ionic migration without the bulk flow of solvents, effectively sealing against fluid pressures exceeding 5000 pounds per square inch. They can be tailored to carry specific amperage at desired voltage levels, allowing for the construction of microfluidic devices that meet particular analytical requirements.
Another significant patent is the "Cast-to-shape electrokinetic trapping medium." This invention describes a three-dimensional microporous polymer network material, or monolith, that is cast-to-shape within a microchannel. The polymer monolith, produced through a phase separation process, is capable of trapping and retaining charged protein species from a mixture of charged and uncharged species when an electric field is applied. The retained charged protein species can be released from the porous polymer monolith using pressure-driven flow, independent of the electric field direction. This innovative approach eliminates the need for reversing fluid flow or a multi-directional flow field, allowing for a single flow through the porous polymer monolith. The resulting monolithic polymer material can also function as a chromatographic medium, providing a means for concentrating charged protein species from dilute solutions.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Alexander Artau has worked with esteemed organizations, including Sandia National Laboratories and Sandia Corporation. His experience in these institutions has contributed to his expertise in the development of innovative materials and technologies.
Collaborations
Artau has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Timothy J. She