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

Author

Listed:
  • 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
    Lehigh University)

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.

Suggested Citation

  • Ratul Paul & Yuwen Zhao & Declan Coster & Xiaochen Qin & Khayrul Islam & Yue Wu & Yaling Liu, 2023. "Rapid prototyping of high-resolution large format microfluidic device through maskless image guided in-situ photopolymerization," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 14(1), pages 1-14, December.
  • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:14:y:2023:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-023-40119-x
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40119-x
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