Apparatus and methods according to the present invention utilize
micropumps that are capable of generating high pressure and flow without
moving mechanical parts and the associated generation of unacceptable
electrical and acoustic noise, as well as the associated reduction in
reliability. These micropumps are fabricated with materials and
structures that improve performance, efficiency, and reduce weight and
manufacturing cost relative to presently available micropumps. These
micropumps also can allow for recapture of evolved gases and deposited
materials, which may provide for long-term closed-loop operation.
Apparatus and methods according to the present invention also allow
active regulation of the temperature of the device through electrical
control of the flow through the pump and can utilize multiple cooling
loops to allow independent regulation of the spatial and temporal
characteristics of the device temperature profiles. Novel enclosed
microchannel structures are also described.