Simple Way To Fabricate Novel Paper-Based Valves Using Plastic Comb Binding Spines

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs) offer potential for low-cost diagnostics.
• Controlling fluid flow in μPADs is crucial for complex assays but often requires intricate mechanisms.
• Existing valve systems can be costly, complex, or require external triggers, limiting user-friendliness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel, user-friendly, and cost-effective valve system for μPADs.
• To demonstrate a simple mechanism for fluid control in 3D μPADs.
• To enable complex and high-throughput operations on μPADs for untrained users.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of 3D μPADs with movable paper channels.
• Integration of plastic comb binding spines (PCBS) to create valve functionality.
• Valve operation mimicking a desk calendar for channel connection/disconnection.
• Analysis of actual samples (Fe (II) and nitrite) to evaluate performance.

Main Results:

• Successful fabrication of paper-based valves using PCBS.
• Demonstration of simple, trigger-free fluid control mimicking a desk calendar.
• Validation of the valve system's performance through the analysis of Fe (II) and nitrite.
• Reduced fabrication cost due to reusable PCBS.

Conclusions:

• The novel PCBS valve strategy offers a user-friendly and cost-effective solution for fluid control in μPADs.
• This method simplifies complex operations, making μPADs more accessible for high-throughput applications.
• The developed valve system presents a new approach for fabricating paper-based valves, enhancing μPAD capabilities.