Lab-on-a-chip refers to technologies which allow operations which normally require a laboratory -synthesis and analysis of chemicals - on a very miniaturized scale, within a portable or handheld device. There are many benefits to operating on this scale. Analysis of samples can take place in situ, exactly where the samples are generated, rather than being transported around to a large laboratory facility. The differences in fluid dynamics on a very small scale mean that it is easier to control the movement and interaction of samples, making reactions much more efficient, and reducing chemical waste.
