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Author Spotlight: Revolutionizing Microfluidics Through Microchannel Fabrication on Nanopaper
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Capillary microfluidics in microchannels: from microfluidic networks to capillaric circuits
Ayokunle Olanrewaju1, Maïwenn Beaugrand, Mohamed Yafia
1Biomedical Engineering Department, McGill University, Genome Quebec and McGill University Innovation Centre, Canada. david.juncker@mcgill.ca.
Lab on a Chip
|July 17, 2018
Summary
Capillary microfluidics, or capillaric circuits (CCs), enable pre-programmed liquid handling without external equipment by leveraging surface tension. Recent advances in rapid prototyping are making CCs more accessible and versatile for diagnostics.
Area of Science:
- Microfluidics
- Surface Science
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Microfluidics offer advantages like reagent economy and automation but often need peripheral flow control.
- Capillary microfluidics utilize surface tension within microchannels for pre-programmed liquid delivery, eliminating the need for external equipment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the three-decade history and progress of microchannel-based capillary microfluidics, termed capillaric circuits (CCs).
- To discuss the underlying physics, circuit elements, and applications of CCs.
- To highlight recent advancements in rapid prototyping and their impact on CC technology.
Main Methods:
- Historical review of microfabrication technologies driving CC development (machining, cleanroom, rapid prototyping).
- Analysis of fundamental physical laws governing capillary flow.
- Deconstruction of CCs into functional elements (pumps, valves) and discussion of their principles.
Main Results:
- Identified three developmental waves in CCs linked to microfabrication advancements.
- Described basic circuit elements, operating principles, and limitations of CCs.
- Highlighted common applications in immunoassays and emerging uses in DNA analysis.
Conclusions:
- Rapid prototyping has lowered entry barriers, enabling faster, cheaper, and more flexible CC design.
- Improved analytical models and accessible manufacturing position CCs as a promising technology for user-friendly, high-performance diagnostics.
- CCs represent a fertile research area with increasing capability for laboratory and diagnostic applications.
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