Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 13, 2026
09:17
3D Printing of Biomolecular Models for Research and Pedagogy
Published on: March 13, 2017
25.1K
3D-printed Quake-style microvalves and micropumps.
Yuan-Sheng Lee1, Nirveek Bhattacharjee2, Albert Folch2
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, USA. ysleetw@uw.edu.
Lab on a Chip
|March 20, 2018
Summary
Researchers developed a transparent, 3D-printable microvalve using biocompatible resin. This scalable design simplifies microfluidic device fabrication, enabling rapid prototyping of microvalves and micropumps.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Microfluidics
- 3D Printing
Background:
- Microfluidic devices often rely on complex microvalves for fluid control.
- Existing microvalve fabrication methods can be time-consuming and labor-intensive.
- There is a need for accessible, scalable microvalve technologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate a novel 3D-printable microvalve with a transparent and biocompatible design.
- To develop a scalable microvalve architecture suitable for array fabrication.
- To create a functional micropump using the developed microvalves.
Main Methods:
- Utilized stereolithographic (SL) 3D printing with poly(ethylene diacrylate) (PEG-DA-258) resin.
- Designed an open-at-rest microvalve with a pneumatically actuated membrane and bowl-shaped seat.
- Fabricated individual microvalves, a series micropump, and a 64-valve array.
Main Results:
- Successfully 3D-printed transparent, biocompatible microvalves and micropumps.
- Demonstrated valve closure via pneumatic pressing of a thin membrane onto a seat.
- Achieved reliable operation of a 64-valve array, showcasing scalability.
- The microvalve design does not require negative pressure for reopening.
Conclusions:
- 3D printing offers a rapid and accessible method for fabricating microfluidic components.
- The developed microvalve design is transparent, biocompatible, and scalable.
- This technology simplifies the construction of complex microfluidic systems and arrays.
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