Modular Microfluidic PDMS Blocks Using a Magnetic Connection System

Description

A modular microfluidic system is presented which can be used to easily and individually build a microfluidic network by linking different modules. We report on a fabrication technology based on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microfluidic blocks, where channel structures and shapes are 3D-printed using acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). These templates are then put into a polyurethane (PU) mold and, after casting of the PDMS, dissolved using acetone. By applying this process, a big variety of channel designs can be realized. Sensors, valves and other components could be easily integrated, by placing them into the mold before casting of the PDMS. A suitable arrangement of embedded permanent magnets at the fluidic interfaces of the modules enables an easy and flexible linking and delinking of modules with each other. In combination with an O-ring-like structure on the connection surfaces, the fluidic interconnection between the blocks is self-sealing for difference pressures up to 130 kPa. Moreover, the fabricated blocks are optically transparent and chemically inert.

Period	31 Oct 2022
Event title	IEEE SENSORS 2022
Event type	Conference
Location	AustriaShow on map