Integrated Multiscale Process Units with Locally Structured Elements

Low–cost engineered components with structural features in the range of microns to millimeters (“microstructured objects”) are now readily available in a wide variety of chemically resistant materials such as glass, stainless steel, ceramics, polymers, alloys and graphite (and no longer only silicon). These new microstructured objects offer stimulating perspectives for the development of a new generation of highly original process components and systems for chemical and biochemical application, which can be exploited to improve significantly the quality, safety and effectiveness of industrial production.