Precision machining technology for microfluidic chips: progress and applications
Microfluidic chips have received great attention in various fields such as biomedical research, diagnosis and chemical analysis, and the important
role of precision machining technology in microfluidic chip fabrication cannot be ignored. Advances in machining technologies in recent years,
such as laser micromachining, micromilling and soft lithography, have been increasingly used in the creation of complex microfluidic structures.
The many benefits of precision machining, including high accuracy, reproducibility, and scalability, have positively impacted the development
of innovative microfluidic devices.
Microfluidic chips, also known as lab-on-a-chip devices, have revolutionized the field of fluidics processing and analysis. The ability of these
chips to precisely manipulate and control fluids on a micro-scale offers many advantages over traditional laboratory techniques.
Precision processing techniques for microfluidic chip fabrication:
1.1 Laser micromachining:
Laser micromachining involves the use of a high-energy laser beam to selectively remove material from a substrate to form microchannels and
structures on the chip. This technique provides high precision and allows the fabrication of complex designs with sub-micron accuracy. Laser
micromachining is widely used to create microfluidic channels, reservoirs, and valves.
1.2 Micro-milling:
Micro-milling utilizes miniature cutting tools to remove material from a substrate, enabling the creation of complex three-dimensional microstructures.
The technique is particularly well suited for the fabrication of microfluidic chips with integrated functionality, such as mixers, filters, and sensors.
Micro-milling provides excellent dimensional control and surface finish for high-precision applications.
1.3 Soft lithography:
Soft lithography is a versatile technique that involves replicating microstructures using elastomeric materials such as polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)
It uses molds made by precision machining techniques to transfer the pattern onto the elastomeric material. Soft lithography enables rapid
prototyping of microfluidic devices and allows for easy customization and scalability.
Advances and applications of precision-machined microfluidic chips:
2.1 Biomedical research:
Microfluidic chips have revolutionized biomedical research by providing a platform for cell culture, drug screening, and tissue engineering.
These chips allow precise control of fluid flow, thus enabling the study of cell behavior in a controlled microenvironment. They also facilitate
the development of personalized medicine and point-of-care diagnostics.
2.2 Chemical Analysis:
Microfluidic chips feature significantly advanced chemical analysis techniques. They enable miniaturization of analytical instruments and
reduce sample and reagent consumption while maintaining high sensitivity and accuracy. Microfluidic chips can be used for applications
such as DNA analysis, protein detection and environmental monitoring.
2.3 Point-of-care diagnostics:
Microfluidic chips have the potential to revolutionize point-of-care diagnostics. These portable devices can integrate multiple diagnostic
functions, such as sample preparation, mixing, and detection, on a single chip. Precision machining technology can create the complex
microfluidic structures required for such devices, paving the way for rapid and accurate on-site diagnostics.
Precision machining technologies play a crucial role in the fabrication of microfluidic chips, enabling the creation of complex
microstructures with high accuracy and reproducibility. Laser micromachining, micromilling and soft lithography are some of
the key technologies used in the fabrication of microfluidic devices. These technologies have revolutionized various fields
including biomedical research, chemical analysis and diagnostics by providing precise control over fluidic manipulation.
As precision machining technologies continue to advance, microfluidic chips will continue to evolve, leading to innovative
applications and advancements in a variety of industries.