Characterization and Evaluation of 3D-Printed Connectors for Microfluidics.

Area of Science:

• Engineering
• Materials Science
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Traditional microfluidic interconnections face challenges like time consumption, clogging, poor alignment, and bulky fixtures.
• 3D printing offers a potential solution for fabricating integrated microfluidic connectors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize and evaluate 3D-printed connectors fabricated via UV-assisted coaxial printing.
• To determine the process window and control parameters for fabricating reliable microfluidic connectors.
• To assess the performance of these connectors in terms of channel dimensions and pressure resistance.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of microfluidic connectors using UV-assisted coaxial printing directly onto a substrate with an orifice.
• Identification of an operable process window by controlling outer and inner flow rates.
• Characterization of inner channel dimensions and evaluation of the connectors' pressure withstand capability.

Main Results:

• A process window for UV-assisted coaxial printing of microfluidic connectors was identified.
• Outer flow rate was found to control inner channel dimensions, with a minimum inner diameter of approximately 120 µm achieved.
• The 3D-printed connectors demonstrated a pressure withstand capability exceeding 450 kPa.

Conclusions:

• UV-assisted coaxial printing is a viable method for fabricating direct microfluidic connectors without additional components.
• The developed method allows for control over channel dimensions, reducing geometric mismatch in microfluidic interfaces.
• The high pressure resistance of these 3D-printed connectors enables microfluidic chip operation under normal working pressures.