Rapid Fabrication of Disposable Micromixing Arrays Using Xurography and Laser Ablation

J Martínez-López,Ciro Rodriguez,H.A Betancourt,Hector Siller,Erika García-López

doi:10.3390/mi8050144

Abstract

We assessed xurography and laser ablation for the manufacture of passive micromixers arrays to explore the scalability of unconventional manufacture technologies that could be implemented under the restrictions of the Point of Care for developing countries. In this work, we present a novel split-and-recombine (SAR) array design adapted for interfacing standardized dispensing (handheld micropipette) and sampling (microplate reader) equipment. The design was patterned and sealed from A4 sized vinyl sheets (polyvinyl chloride), employing low-cost disposable materials. Manufacture was evaluated measuring the dimensional error with stereoscopic and confocal microscopy. The micromixing efficiency was estimated using a machine vision system for passive driven infusion provided by micropippetting samples of dye and water. It was possible to employ rapid fabrication based on xurography to develop a four channel asymmetric split-and-recombine (ASAR) micromixer with mixing efficiencies ranging from 43% to 65%.

Highlights

The development and spread of advanced diagnostic devices based on microfluidic technology can be a key strategy element to tackle a wide variety of infectious diseases such as AIDS, tuberculosis (TB) or malaria
The results indicate an absolute dimensional error that was larger in lesser channels, which is explained by heat affected zones where thermal diffusivity is promoted in narrow zones (e.g., 500 μm subchannels) and cut widths with greater variability
The dimensional accuracy of xurography was shown to be better for xurography than laser ablation for the asymmetric split-and-recombine (ASAR) micromixing array

Summary

Introduction

The development and spread of advanced diagnostic devices based on microfluidic technology can be a key strategy element to tackle a wide variety of infectious diseases such as AIDS, tuberculosis (TB) or malaria. Despite the availability of diagnostics and solutions for these diseases, every year about 15 million people die from these diseases [1]. Academics have proposed a wide variety of devices built on advanced manufacturing, electromechanical sensors and actuators, and Information and Communications Technologies (ICT) to treat patients outside the boundaries of a hospital. The approach to bringing healthcare closer to the patients is inherently well encompassed with technologies that enable the miniaturization of established diagnostics, treatment, and monitoring illness. Mobility is an asset that can enhance aid by providing closer access to remote areas, treating illnesses at earlier stages, and deterring the spread of infectious diseases

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Conclusion