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Conformal Hydrogel-Skin Coating on a Microfluidic Channel through Microstamping Transfer of the Masking Layer
Wonhyung Lee1, Jongkyeong Lim2, Joonwon Kim1
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), 77 Cheongam-ro, Nam-gu, Pohang-si 37673, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Republic of Korea.
Analytical Chemistry
|May 18, 2023
Summary
Researchers developed a novel hydrogel coating for poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) microfluidic devices. This coating enhances hydrophilicity and prevents biofouling, improving microfluidic applications and enabling point-of-care diagnostics.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Biomedical Engineering
- Microfluidics
Background:
- Poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) is widely used in microfluidics due to its biocompatibility and ease of fabrication.
- However, PDMS's inherent hydrophobicity and susceptibility to biofouling limit its effectiveness in many microfluidic applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a method for applying a stable, hydrophilic hydrogel coating to PDMS microchannels.
- To demonstrate the improved properties and functionality of coated PDMS for microfluidic applications and diagnostics.
Main Methods:
- A conformal hydrogel-skin coating was applied to PDMS microchannels using microstamping transfer of a masking layer.
- Selective, uniform hydrogel layers (∼1 μm thick) were achieved with high resolution (∼3 μm).
- Wettability transitions were assessed via switched emulsification in a flow-focusing device.
Main Results:
- The hydrogel coating maintained its structure and hydrophilicity for at least 180 days (6 months).
- Coated PDMS exhibited a transition from hydrophobic (water-in-oil) to hydrophilic (oil-in-water) emulsification.
- A bead-based immunoassay for detecting anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG was successfully performed on the coated platform.
Conclusions:
- Hydrogel-skin coating effectively addresses the hydrophobicity and biofouling issues of PDMS microchannels.
- The developed coating technology enhances PDMS suitability for advanced microfluidic applications, including point-of-care diagnostics.
