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Microfluidic paper-based device coupled with 3D printed imaging box for colorimetric detection in resource-limited
Vijay Vaishampayan1, Oinam Robita Chanu2, Balasubramanian Sivasamy3
1Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Ropar, Rupnagar, Punjab 140001, India.
Hardwarex
|August 2, 2023
Summary
This study presents a low-cost, paper-based microfluidic device for detecting contaminants like hexavalent chromium. The accessible design, coupled with smartphone imaging, offers a simple solution for on-site water quality analysis.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Environmental Science
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Current analytical methods for detecting contaminants are often expensive, require specialized equipment, and need trained personnel, limiting accessibility.
- This inaccessibility is particularly problematic in resource-limited regions, hindering public health and environmental protection efforts.
- Microfluidic devices offer a potential solution due to their low cost, portability, and ease of use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a protocol for fabricating a low-cost, open-source paper-based microfluidic device for colorimetric analyte detection.
- To integrate the device with a 3D-printed imaging box for standardized lighting conditions.
- To demonstrate the platform's capability for quantitative analysis using smartphone imaging and open-source software.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a paper-based microfluidic device using readily available materials and tools.
- Assembly of a 3D-printed imaging box to ensure consistent illumination for colorimetric reactions.
- Quantitative analysis of detected analytes via digital imaging using smartphones and open-source ImageJ software.
Main Results:
- Successful demonstration of a low-cost, user-friendly platform for analyte detection.
- Effective detection and quantification of hexavalent chromium, a toxic water contaminant.
- The system provides accurate results comparable to traditional methods, but with significantly reduced cost and complexity.
Conclusions:
- The developed paper-based microfluidic system offers an accessible and cost-effective alternative for detecting water contaminants and other analytes.
- The platform's ease of fabrication and use, combined with smartphone integration, democratizes analytical testing.
- This approach holds significant potential for widespread adoption in environmental monitoring, public health, and various sensing applications.
