Inexpensive, rapid prototyping of microfluidic devices using overhead transparencies and a laser print, cut and laminate fabrication method

Abstract

We describe a technique for fabricating microfluidic devices with complex multilayer architectures using a laser printer, a CO2 laser cutter, an office laminator and common overhead transparencies as a printable substrate via a laser print, cut and laminate (PCL) methodology. The printer toner serves three functions: (i) it defines the microfluidic architecture, which is printed on the overhead transparencies; (ii) it acts as the adhesive agent for the bonding of multiple transparency layers; and (iii) it provides, in its unmodified state, printable, hydrophobic 'valves' for fluidic flow control. By using common graphics software, e.g., CorelDRAW or AutoCAD, the protocol produces microfluidic devices with a design-to-device time of ∼40 min. Devices of any shape can be generated for an array of multistep assays, with colorimetric detection of molecular species ranging from small molecules to proteins. Channels with varying depths can be formed using multiple transparency layers in which a CO2 laser is used to remove the polyester from the channel sections of the internal layers. The simplicity of the protocol, availability of the equipment and substrate and cost-effective nature of the process make microfluidic devices available to those who might benefit most from expedited, microscale chemistry.

Multiplexed efficient on-chip sample preparation and sensitive amplification-free detection of Ebola virus

“…Microfluidics with its advantages of low volume consumption, flexibility, disposability, and low costs, is a powerful tool for addressing POC sample preparation challenges (Elvira et al 2013; Sackmann et al 2014; Tan et al 2015; Thompson et al 2015). Because the channel and reactor sizes are at the micrometer scale, multiple assays can be performed in a small area in parallel.…”

Colorimetric Detection of Glucose in Biological Fluids Using Toner-Based Microzone Plates

“…[10][11][12] Among the alternative fabrication methodologies, tonerbased techniques offer simplicity and low instrumental requirements, thus making possible their implementation in any laboratory or research center. 13,14 Toner was firstly explored for microfabrication in 2001, when Tan et al 15 suggested the use of a photocopying machine to create a high-relief master for prototyping of microfluidic devices in poly(dimetilsyloxane) (PDMS) substrate. In 2003, do Lago et al 16 proposed the direct fabrication of microfluidic devices using a laser printer for the deposition of toner layers on polyester films followed by a thermal lamination for sealing of channels at low temperature.…”

A fully integrated microfluidic device for point of care monitoring of antithrombotics

“…10 In the current study we have used cyclic polyolefins (COPs) which belong to a class of polymers employed due to their compatibility with biological materials, low autofluorescence, long shelf life and suitability for surface modification amongst others. 11,12 Multilayer alignment fabrication methodologies are commonly used to develop functional microdevices 13,14 , as lamination of polymer layers offers greater versatility and low cost. Zeonor® was chosen for this study, in conjunction with PSA (pressure sensitive adhesive), as both are suitable materials for simple fabrication and lamination methodologies.…”