Efficient Sonochemistry through Microbubbles Generated with Micromachined Surfaces

Abstract

It's the pits: Increased efficiency and controllability of sonochemical reactions was achieved with silicon surfaces on which pits were micromachined to entrap gas, which, upon ultrasonic excitation, emits a stream of microbubbles (see picture). The microbubbles are chemically active at ultrasonic amplitudes well below those necessary for sonochemical activity in conventional reactors.