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Updated: Feb 12, 2026

Fabrication of the Thermoplastic Microfluidic Channels
Published on: February 3, 2008
Note: Making tens of centimeter long uniform microfluidic channels using commercial glass pipette
Neil Ou1, Huang-Ming Lee1, Jong-Ching Wu1
1Department of Physics, National Changhua University of Education, Changhua 500, Taiwan.
Abstract:
Producing microchannels with diameters between 10 and 20 μm and with lengths in the tens of centimeters is reported. The method can be modified to obtain diameters as narrow as 350 nm. Length-to-diameter aspect ratios that surpass 104 can be produced for a fraction of current production costs. The controllable channel is produced by applying a flame to the narrow end of a commercial pipette that is made from a soda-lime silicate. In combination with a pulling mechanism, applying heat to the composite material lengthens the pipette in a highly uniform way. Given that the materials and methods in this research are cost-effective when compared to femtosecond laser micromachining on 2D silicon-based surfaces, further research into producing microchannels from soda-lime silicates may revolutionize access to 3D controllable microchannels.
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