Abstract
We introduce a variety of biocompatible fluidic connectors that can be integrated into microfluidic chips by ultrasonic welding. Commercially available barbed fittings and dispensing needles with Luer lock fittings were integrated between two chip components ensuring a fluidic in-plane contact. In addition, straight Luer lock fittings in combination with ultrasonic hot embossing, 3D printed thermoplastic connectors with Luer lock and barbed fittings were integrated out-of-plane. The integration was successful without clogging any fluidic channels.Depending on the connector type, the pressure tightness differs. Dispensing needles showed the lowest pressure tightness of only 1.14 bar. However, all other connector types were pressure tight to at least 3.75 bar.The main advantage of the integration technique of ultrasonic welding is the rapid implementation of individual connectors adapted to the required situation—for prototypes as well as for large-scale production. Moreover, multiple connectors can be integrated simultaneously in just one single step. This provides a user-friendly and stable connection of commonly used connector types such as barbed or Luer lock fittings for microfluidic applications.
Highlights
Microfluidic devices are required for chemical synthesis, biomedical devices, analytics, diagnostics, and for bio catalysis for pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals [1, 2]
We introduce a variety of biocompatible fluidic connectors that can be integrated into microfluidic chips by ultrasonic welding
Magnets [10], there is a wide range of connectors that are attached by screwing Luer lock fittings or high-performance liquid chromatography fittings
Summary
Microfluidic devices are required for chemical synthesis, biomedical devices, analytics, diagnostics, and for bio catalysis for pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals [1, 2]. Magnets [10], there is a wide range of connectors that are attached by screwing Luer lock fittings or high-performance liquid chromatography fittings These connections are mainly made of materials such as metal or thermoplastics in combination with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) or rubber for sealing and can be realized either out-of-plane or in-plane [7], focusing mainly on the joining method thereof. The integration of microfluidic connections via ultrasonic welding by dispensing needles or polymer hoses was realized in a first approach by different groups [13,14,15] Requirements such as a low dead volume [14, 16] or the ease of plugging and removal and the compatibility with commercial tubing and fittings, reliability at higher pressures in combination with low costs, chemical inertness and biocompatibility [7, 17,18,19,20] were rarely accomplished.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
