Microreplication technologies for polymer-based μ-TAS applications

Abstract

This chapter describes different techniques developed for the fabrication of polymer-based μ -TAS devices using replication methods. Polymer replication methods have gained high attention as alternative fabrication methods for microfluidic devices. They represent a pathway to a commercial fabrication of such devices as well as, in the case of casting and embossing, an attractive way of rapid prototyping. One basic property common for all replication techniques is the need for a replication master. The replication master can be fabricated by a large variety of techniques, covering the whole spectrum of microfabrication technologies developed over the years. The most widely used elastomer used for microfluidic applications is polydimethylsiloxane. Normally, at the end of any of replication processes, a polymer part is not in its final state of its use. To have a device usable for microfluidics, several back-end processes typically have to take place to finish the part. These include enclosing, metallization, and surface modification. The range of polymer materials examined for microfluidic applications is steadily increasing. So it is clear that there is not only the replication method, but for each application, a suitable method should be there to fulfill the user's needs.