Demonstration of microfluidics for synthesis of sol-gel feedstocks

This report details the design and processing conditions for producing hydrous cerium oxide surrogate microspheres using a microfluidics-based approach. Variables such as microfluidic chip design, exit tubing diameter, temperature, and flow rate continue to be investigated. A washing and drying procedure to remove gelation media, unreacted starting material, and unwanted reaction byproducts is under development. Samples are imaged for analysis of size and geometry.