Abstract
Recently published studies have shown that microfluidic devices fabricated by in-house three-dimensional (3D) printing, computer numerical control (CNC) milling and laser engraving have a good quality of performance. The 3-in-1 3D printers, desktop machines that integrate the three primary functions in a single user-friendly set-up are now available for computer-controlled adaptable surface processing, for less than USD 1000. Here, we demonstrate that 3-in-1 3D printer-based micromachining is an effective strategy for creating microfluidic devices and an easier and more economical alternative to, for instance, conventional photolithography. Our aim was to produce plastic microfluidic chips with engraved microchannel structures or micro-structured plastic molds for casting polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) chips with microchannel imprints. The reproducability and accuracy of fabrication of microfluidic chips with straight, crossed line and Y-shaped microchannel designs were assessed and their microfluidic performance checked by liquid stream tests. All three fabrication methods of the 3-in-1 3D printer produced functional microchannel devices with adequate solution flow. Accordingly, 3-in-1 3D printers are recommended as cheap, accessible and user-friendly tools that can be operated with minimal training and little starting knowledge to successfully fabricate basic microfluidic devices that are suitable for educational work or rapid prototyping.
Highlights
As an advanced technological platform, the fabrication of microfluidic systems has relied on modern photo- and soft-lithography as the routine procedure [1]
The crossed junction design was an ideal pattern for testing the creation of more complex microfluidic channel types with liquid flow in channels that meet at a right-angle and continue as one
The serpentine microchannel with a Yshaped junction on the inlet side for input of two different solutions and a meandering path enabled tests of channel designs tailored for effective liquid mixing during passage
Summary
As an advanced technological platform, the fabrication of microfluidic systems has relied on modern photo- and soft-lithography as the routine procedure [1] While this method is still the gold standard for microfluidic device production, it is not the most accessible approach, as time-consuming work in costly cleanroom facilities and a high level of technical skill are required for the successful creation of miniaturized devices to precise microscopic specifications. Instruments have appeared on the market with the functions of three-dimensional fused deposition modelling (FDM) printing, CNC milling and laser cutting/engraving integrated in switchable fashion.
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