christie_LOC accepted Manuscript.pdf (690.46 kB)
Download fileCustomisable 3D printed microfluidics for integrated analysis and optimisation
journal contribution
posted on 2016-08-05, 13:29 authored by Tom Monaghan, Matthew Harding, Russell A. Harris, Ross J. Friel, Steven ChristieSteven ChristieThe formation of smart Lab-on-a-Chip (LOC) devices featuring integrated sensing optics is currently hindered
by convoluted and expensive manufacturing procedures. In this work, a series of 3D-printed LOC
devices were designed and manufactured via stereolithography (SL) in a matter of hours. The spectroscopic
performance of a variety of optical fibre combinations were tested, and the optimum path length for
performing Ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy determined. The information gained in these trials was
then used in a reaction optimisation for the formation of carvone semicarbazone. The production of high
resolution surface channels (100–500 μm) means that these devices were capable of handling a wide range
of concentrations (9 μM–38 mM), and are ideally suited to both analyte detection and process optimisation.
This ability to tailor the chip design and its integrated features as a direct result of the reaction being
assessed, at such a low time and cost penalty greatly increases the user's ability to optimise both their device
and reaction. As a result of the information gained in this investigation, we are able to report the first
instance of a 3D-printed LOC device with fully integrated, in-line monitoring capabilities via the use of embedded
optical fibres capable of performing UV-vis spectroscopy directly inside micro channels.
Funding
This work was supported by the Engineering and Physical Science Research Council (EPSRC) via the Centre for Innovative Manufacturing in Additive Manufacturing.
History
School
- Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering