Low cost fabrication and assembly process for re-usable 3D polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microfluidic networks

Abstract

A method to easily manufacture and assemble a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) based microfluidic device is described. The method uses low cost materials and reusable laser cut polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) parts. In addition, the thickness of PDMS layers can be controlled and both PDMS layer surfaces are flat, which allows for multi-layer PDMS structures to be assembled. The use of mechanical clamping to seal the structure allows for easy cleaning and re-use of the manufactured part as it can be taken apart at any time. In this way, selected layers can be reused or replaced. The process described can be easily adopted and utilised without the need for any costly clean room facilities or equipment such as oxygen bonders, making it ideal for laboratories, universities, and classrooms exploring microfluidics applications.