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Engineering the surface properties of microfluidic stickers.
Bertrand Levaché1, Ammar Azioune, Maurice Bourrel
1Laboratoire PMMH, ESPCI ParisTech, CNRS UMR 7636, Université Pierre et Marie Curie et Université Paris Diderot, 10, rue Vauquelin 75005, Paris, France. bertrand.levache@espci.fr
Lab on a Chip
|August 3, 2012
Summary
We developed a simple method to control surface properties in thiolene-based microfluidic devices. This technique allows for stable, tunable wetting and adhesion, enabling diverse microfluidic applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Microfluidics
- Surface Chemistry
Background:
- Microfluidic devices require precise control over surface properties for optimal fluid handling.
- Existing methods for modifying microchannel surfaces have limitations in terms of flexibility and stability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce a facile and effective one-step lithographic method for tailoring the wetting and adhesion properties of thiolene-based microfluidic devices.
- To demonstrate the versatility and stability of the developed surface modification technique.
Main Methods:
- A one-step lithographic scheme was employed to modify the surface chemistry of thiolene-based microfluidic channels.
- Surface wettability was characterized using contact angle measurements for pure water.
- Two complementary methods for achieving heterogeneous surface patterning were detailed.
Main Results:
- The method allows for in situ or ex situ modification of channel walls.
- Wettability can be continuously varied, achieving contact angle contrasts from 0 to 90°.
- Surface modifications demonstrated high stability upon aging and heating.
Conclusions:
- The developed lithographic method offers a versatile and robust approach for surface patterning in microfluidic devices.
- The tailored surface properties are suitable for applications including fluid guiding, emulsion production, and cell culture.
