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Negligible-cost microfluidic device fabrication using 3D-printed interconnecting channel scaffolds
Harry Felton1, Robert Hughes1, Andrea Diaz-Gaxiola2,3
1Faculty of Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, CAME School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom.
Plos One
|February 3, 2021
Summary
This study introduces a low-cost, open-source method for creating microfluidic devices using 3D-printed scaffolds. This rapid prototyping technique enables affordable lab-on-a-chip diagnostics and microfluidics research globally.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Engineering
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Microfluidic devices are crucial for diagnostics and research but often require expensive fabrication.
- Existing methods for creating microfluidic devices can be complex and inaccessible.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel, low-cost, and open-source process for rapid prototyping of microfluidic devices.
- To demonstrate the feasibility and reliability of using 3D-printed scaffolds for microfluidic fabrication.
Main Methods:
- Utilized Material Extrusion (MEX) 3D printers to create interconnecting microchannel scaffolds.
- Embedded 3D-printed scaffolds in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) to create microfluidic channels.
- Characterized the morphology and performance of PDMS microchannels under typical working pressures.
Main Results:
- Achieved a minimum channel cross-section of 100x100 μm using standard MEX 3D printers.
- Fabricated customisable microfluidic systems without specialized equipment.
- Demonstrated functional microfluidic devices, including a fluid mixer and a droplet generator.
Conclusions:
- The developed process offers a negligible-cost and open-source solution for microfluidic device prototyping.
- This technique significantly lowers the barrier for microfluidics research and education.
- Enables the rapid development of affordable point-of-care lab-on-a-chip diagnostic technologies worldwide.
