Rapid fabrication of microfluidic devices using additive manufacturing technologies

Abstract

Microfluidics is a sector in lab technologies used to manipulate small volumes of fluid through channels the width of a hair. Current fabrication techniques are expensive and require a multistep process. Thus, additive manufacturing processes such as 3D printing are being studied. In this project a two-stage experimental approach has been carried out to study the feasibility of additive manufacturing in the fabrication of microfluidic devices. Using the equipment and materials mentioned below, a minimum channel width of 400μm was achieved on the DLP printer (in one print), while a minimum channel width of 700μm was achieved on the FFF printer using water soluble core support. Surface roughness was measured and resulted in the profile roughness being similar between both printers and an areal roughness favouring the DLP printed specimen. The accuracy/squareness of the DLP experienced more uniform reduction. A pressure test, cycling through 2, 4, 6 and 10bar was withstood by specimens printed on both printers. Upon increasing complexity, the FFF was incapable of printing the mixer specimen due to increased inaccuracy. The mixing specimen was successfully printed on the DLP printer and tested.