At-Home Microscale Paper-Based Quantitative Analysis Activity with External Standards

Abstract

An inexpensive at-home quantitative analysis activity was developed for the determination of glucose in unknown samples using paper-based microfluidic devices. All of the materials and reagents for the activity fit in a small kit that was mailed to students. The only items students needed to supply were water and a smartphone. Microgram quantities of glucose were dried down in microcentrifuge tubes and included in the kit so that students could prepare external standards. Student results distinguished between two different concentrations of glucose that served as unknown samples. The combination of paper-based devices and dried-down microgram quantities of reagents provides a foundation for the development of other at-home or in-person experiments.