Performance Comparison of Mechanical and Ferrofluidic Micropumps: Structural and Operational Perspectives

Since the successful implementation of microfluidic technology in biomedical applications, research on micropumps—the central component of these systems—has gained significant momentum. Benefiting from advancements in pump materials and corresponding fabrication methods, micropumps have evolved from structurally complex mechanical designs to simpler non-mechanical configurations. This paper reviews well-developed mechanical micropumps, discussing their diaphragms, pump chambers, materials, and other aspects to outline their developmental trajectory and current applications, while also highlighting their limitations. After identifying the shortcomings of traditional micropumps, we introduce the concept of ferrofluid-based micropumps, emphasizing their structural simplicity, self-sealing capability, and recoverability. Previous research on ferrofluidic micropumps is summarized, demonstrating their superior performance in certain aspects. Finally, we provide an outlook on their potential applications in biomedicine and specialized fields.