Microfluidic assembly kit based on laser-cut building blocks for education and fast prototyping

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Educational Science
• Materials Science

Background:

• Microfluidics offers powerful techniques for cell manipulation and analysis.
• Access to microfluidic tools is often limited by cost and complexity.
• Engaging younger audiences with advanced scientific methods is crucial for future STEM development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present an inexpensive, rapid-prototyping method for assembling multi-layered microfluidic devices.
• To develop low-cost kits (<$2) for hands-on microfluidic experiments.
• To create an accessible educational module for teaching microfluidics to children.

Main Methods:

• Utilized laser-cut acrylic building blocks and double-sided tape for device assembly.
• Designed kits for generating water-in-oil droplets, capturing living cells, and conducting phototaxis experiments.
• Developed and tested a 90-minute lesson plan for children aged 12-14.

Main Results:

• Successfully demonstrated a rapid-prototyping approach for microfluidic device fabrication.
• Validated the use of low-cost kits for performing key microfluidic applications.
• Confirmed the effectiveness of the developed lesson plan for educational purposes.

Conclusions:

• The presented method provides an affordable and accessible route to microfluidics fabrication.
• This approach can democratize access to microfluidic technologies in resource-limited labs and classrooms.
• Facilitates early exposure to microfluidics, fostering interest and skills in young learners.