Fabrication of Low-Cost Paper-Based Microfluidic Devices by Embossing or Cut-and-Stack Methods

Abstract

This communication describes the use of embossing, and “cut-and-stack” methods of assembly, to generate microfluidic devices from omniphobic paper, and demonstrates that fluid flowing through these devices behaves similarly to fluid in an open-channel microfluidic device. The porosity of the paper to gasses allows processes not possible in devices made using PDMS or other non-porous materials. Droplet generators and phase separators, for example, could be made by embossing “T”-shaped channels on paper. Vertical stacking of embossed or cut layers of omniphobic paper generated three-dimensional systems of microchannels. The gas permeability of the paper allowed fluid in the microchannel to contact and exchange with environmental or directed gases. An aqueous stream of water containing a pH-indicator, as one demonstration, changed color upon exposure to air containing HCl or NH3 gases.