Rapid prototyping of robust and versatile microfluidic components using adhesive transfer tapes.

Area of Science:

• Microfluidics
• Materials Science
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Lab-on-a-chip (LOC) systems integrate multiple microfluidic functions, requiring flexible and robust prototyping.
• Existing methods for LOC fabrication can be time-consuming and require specialized facilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a rapid prototyping technique for microfluidic devices using adhesive transfer tapes.
• To demonstrate the versatility and robustness of this method for various LOC applications.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of microfluidic devices using adhesive transfer tapes, CO2 laser cutter, and 2D CAD software.
• Utilized readily available components, avoiding chemical processing or clean-room environments.
• Demonstrated prototyping of microfluidic mixing, dielectrophoretic trapping, and high-temperature reactions.

Main Results:

• Successfully fabricated diverse microfluidic devices, including complex networks and interfaces, in under 30 minutes.
• Adhesive transfer tapes, without carrier layers, offered enhanced flexibility compared to double-sided tapes.
• Prototypes demonstrated robustness under mechanical, electrical, and thermal stress.

Conclusions:

• Adhesive transfer tapes offer a versatile, rapid, and robust prototyping solution for integrated lab-on-a-chip systems.
• This method simplifies LOC fabrication by using off-the-shelf components and standard equipment.
• The technique is suitable for a wide range of microfluidic applications, including those requiring high temperatures.