Liquid metal enabled continuous flow reactor: A proof-of-concept

Continuous flow reactors are used in a wide variety of chemical and biological processes. However, problems with mechanical pumps and lack of reactive components are the current challenges in the setup of contemporary flow reactors. Here we introduce a proof-of-concept liquid metal enabled continuous flow reactor that can promote both mass transport and reactions. We show that a continuously operating system based on a gallium metal droplet can pump a solution containing reagents, while spontaneously allowing a reaction to take place at the metal droplet interface. Model examples are demonstrated for generating Mn₃O₄, MoS₂, and reduced graphene oxide. The system is characterized at different voltages and frequencies to show the gamut of its performance, while characterization of the produced materials showcases the controlled qualities of the synthesized materials and properties of the flow reactor. The proposed continuous flow reactor can find many applications within the food, chemical, and pharmaceutical industries.