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Fabrication of a configurable, single-use microfluidic device.
J C McDonald1, S J Metallo, G M Whitesides
1Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138, USA.
Analytical Chemistry
|January 5, 2002
Summary
Researchers developed novel microfluidic devices using poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) with user-controlled fluidic connections. Applying high voltage creates pathways for on-demand fluid delivery, enabling complex reactions and assays.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Microfluidics
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Microfluidic devices offer precise fluid handling but often lack post-fabrication connectivity control.
- Poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) is a common material for microfluidic fabrication due to its biocompatibility and ease of use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe novel microfluidic devices with user-activated, post-fabrication connections.
- To demonstrate controlled fluid delivery for complex reactions and assays.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of microfluidic devices in PDMS with initially disconnected channels separated by a thin PDMS layer.
- Application of voltages exceeding PDMS breakdown (21 V/microm) to create conductive pathways between channels.
- Controlled fluid pumping through newly opened connections.
Main Results:
- User-activated pathways were successfully created by applying high voltage across PDMS barriers.
- The size of the opened pathways was tunable by adjusting voltage and buffer ionic strength.
- A microfluidic device for Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) was demonstrated, showcasing on-demand fluid storage and delivery.
Conclusions:
- Post-fabrication connection of microfluidic channels is achievable using electrical breakdown of PDMS.
- This technology enables precise control over fluid routing for complex, multi-step assays.
- The developed devices offer a versatile platform for on-demand fluid manipulation in various applications.