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Regioselective patterning of multiple SAMs and applications in surface-guided smart microfluidics
Chuanzhao Chen1, Pengcheng Xu, Xinxin Li
1State Key Lab of Transducer Technology, and, Science Technology on Micro-system Lab, Shanghai Institute of Micro-system and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences , 865 Changning Road, Shanghai 200050, China.
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
|December 2, 2014
Summary
A new nanofabrication method enables precise patterning of multiple self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) in microfluidic channels. This technique allows for complex surface modifications, leading to advanced fluid control and efficient mixing applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Microfluidics
Background:
- Microfluidic devices require precise surface functionalization for tailored fluid behavior.
- Integrating multiple distinct surface chemistries within a single microchannel is challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a top-down nanofabrication technology for regioselective patterning of multiple self-assembled monolayers (SAMs).
- To enable multiplex surface functionalization of microfluidic chips for advanced applications.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing ultraviolet light exposure through a hollowed hard mask to selectively remove and regrow different SAMs.
- Employing a photolithography-like process cycle for sequential SAM deposition.
- Vapor-phase deposition of SAMs before channel bonding for high-quality surface modification.
Main Results:
- Successfully integrated three or more distinct SAMs within a single microchannel for the first time.
- Demonstrated various surface-directed flow-guiding functions through experimental validation.
- Generated 3D swirling flow in a microchannel using a multi-SAM stripe array, leading to rapid oil/water mixing and efficient chemical extraction.
Conclusions:
- The developed nanofabrication technique offers unprecedented control over microfluidic surface functionalization.
- This method is highly valuable for creating sophisticated microfluidic devices with tailored surface properties.
- The demonstrated applications highlight the potential for enhanced mixing and extraction in microfluidic systems.
