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3D printed microfluidics: advances in strategies, integration, and applications
Ruitao Su1, Fujun Wang2, Michael C McAlpine2
1School of Mechanical and Power Engineering, Zhengzhou University, 100 Science Avenue, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China.
Lab on a Chip
|February 13, 2023
Summary
3D printing enables advanced microfluidic devices with rapid prototyping and material versatility. Further optimization is needed for widespread research and commercial use of these multiplexed micro-systems.
Area of Science:
- * Microfluidics and advanced manufacturing.
- * Materials science and engineering.
- * Biomedical engineering and soft robotics.
Background:
- * Microfluidic systems are crucial for fluid regulation across diverse scientific fields.
- * Traditional microfabrication methods face limitations in speed, material choice, and integration.
- * 3D printing offers a promising alternative for microfluidic device fabrication.
Purpose of the Study:
- * To review the current state and advancements in 3D printed microfluidics.
- * To identify key performance metrics and challenges in the field.
- * To highlight recent progress in materials, printing techniques, and integration.
Main Methods:
- * Comprehensive literature review of 3D printing technologies for microfluidics.
- * Analysis of ink properties, resolution, and integration strategies.
- * Examination of direct printing on diverse substrates and use of elastomers.
Main Results:
- * 3D printing facilitates rapid prototyping, automated manufacturing, and multi-material integration.
- * Advances include thermosetting elastomers, enhanced resolution, and direct printing on 3D surfaces.
- * Significant progress has been made in device performance and multifunctionality.
Conclusions:
- * 3D printed microfluidics are rapidly evolving, offering versatile and on-demand fabrication.
- * These technologies have the potential to democratize microfluidic device creation.
- * Future developments will likely reduce reliance on specialized microfabrication facilities.
