Rapid prototyping of high-resolution large format microfluidic device through maskless image guided in-situ photopolymerization

Ratul Paul, Yuwen Zhao, Declan Coster, Xiaochen Qin, Khayrul Islam, Yue Wu and Yaling Liu ()
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Ratul Paul: Lehigh University
Yuwen Zhao: Lehigh University
Declan Coster: Lehigh University
Xiaochen Qin: Lehigh University
Khayrul Islam: Lehigh University
Yue Wu: Lehigh University
Yaling Liu: Lehigh University

Nature Communications, 2023, vol. 14, issue 1, 1-14

Abstract: Abstract Microfluidic devices have found extensive applications in mechanical, biomedical, chemical, and materials research. However, the high initial cost, low resolution, inferior feature fidelity, poor repeatability, rough surface finish, and long turn-around time of traditional prototyping methods limit their wider adoption. In this study, a strategic approach to a deterministic fabrication process based on in-situ image analysis and intermittent flow control called image-guided in-situ maskless lithography (IGIs-ML), has been proposed to overcome these challenges. By using dynamic image analysis and integrated flow control, IGIs-ML provides superior repeatability and fidelity of densely packed features across a large area and multiple devices. This general and robust approach enables the fabrication of a wide variety of microfluidic devices and resolves critical proximity effect and size limitations in rapid prototyping. The affordability and reliability of IGIs-ML make it a powerful tool for exploring the design space beyond the capabilities of traditional rapid prototyping.

Date: 2023
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40119-x

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