Three dimensional microfluidics with embedded microball lenses for parallel and high throughput multicolor fluorescence detection
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Updated: May 4, 2026

Multicolor Fluorescence Detection for Droplet Microfluidics Using Optical Fibers
Published on: May 5, 2016
1Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA ; Institute of Applied Mechanics, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan.
Abstract:
We report a 3D microfluidic device with 32 detection channels and 64 sheath flow channels and embedded microball lens array for high throughput multicolor fluorescence detection. A throughput of 358 400 cells/s has been accomplished. This device is realized by utilizing solid immersion micro ball lens arrays for high sensitivity and parallel fluorescence detection. High refractive index micro ball lenses (n = 2.1) are embedded underneath PDMS channels close to cell detection zones in channels. This design permits patterning high N.A. micro ball lenses in a compact fashion for parallel fluorescence detection on a small footprint device. This device also utilizes 3D microfluidic fabrication to address fluid routing issues in two-dimensional parallel sheath focusing and allows simultaneous pumping of 32 sample channels and 64 sheath flow channels with only two inlets.
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