Enclosed paper-based analytical devices: Concept, variety, and outlook

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Material Science
• Miniaturized Devices

Background:

• Paper-based analytical devices (PADs) offer cost-effectiveness, ease of production, and rapid results compared to conventional methods.
• PADs are increasingly adopted across various scientific fields for diverse applications.
• Enclosed channel designs in PADs provide crucial environmental protection, enhancing practical utility, yet this aspect is often overlooked.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the lack of literature on enclosed channel PADs.
• To highlight key issues and recent advancements in enclosed channel PAD design.
• To provide implications for researchers in sensing technology, analytical chemistry, material science, and miniaturized devices.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on PAD fabrication and detection methods.
• In-depth focus on paper-based devices with enclosed channels.
• Discussion of breakthroughs in device types, novel fabrication strategies, and practical applications.

Main Results:

• Enclosed channel designs offer significant advantages for practical PAD applications.
• Recent research shows progress in various enclosed channel PAD types and fabrication techniques.
• Numerous practical application examples demonstrate the potential of these devices.

Conclusions:

• Enclosed channel PADs represent a critical area for advancement in sensing technology.
• Further research into novel fabrication and applications is warranted.
• This review provides a foundation for future development in the field.