Microfluidic solutions for biofluids handling in on-skin wearable systems

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Microfluidics
• Wearable Technology

Background:

• On-skin wearable systems for biofluid sampling and biomarker sensing promise healthcare revolution but face adoption challenges.
• Microfluidic science and technology are crucial for bridging the gap between basic and clinical research in this area.
• The emerging field of epidermal microfluidics and advances in flexible microfluidic systems drive innovation in wearable biosensors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the state-of-the-art microfluidic platforms for on-skin wearable devices.
• To discuss technologies enhancing stretchability and biofluid handling for wearable biosensors.
• To highlight future directions and emerging technologies in micro elastofluidics for on-skin applications.

Main Methods:

• Comparison of various microfluidic platforms: semiconductor-based, polymer-based, liquid metal-based, paper-based, and textile-based.
• Discussion of methods to enhance the stretchability of on-skin wearable biosensors.
• Analysis of microfluidic solutions for biofluid collection, transport, and control, including finger-powered micropumps.

Main Results:

• Various microfluidic platforms show potential for on-skin wearable devices, each with unique advantages.
• Integration of microfluidic strategies can significantly improve the stretchability and performance of wearable biosensors.
• Finger-powered micropumps offer a promising solution for precise and on-demand biofluid manipulation in wearable systems.

Conclusions:

• Micro elastofluidics provides viable solutions for on-skin wearable biofluid handling.
• Emerging technologies like droplet-based microfluidics and topological liquid diodes hold significant potential for future on-skin devices.
• Continued research in microfluidic platforms and biofluid handling is essential for the clinical adoption of wearable healthcare technologies.