PDMS Based Microfluidics Fabrication Using 3D-Printed Molds

Abstract

Microfluidic devices have a central role in many biomedical applications, and there are many fabrication methods to obtain microchannels and reservoirs. Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) based microfluidics register an intense development due to the well-known advantages of this material. New manufacturing methods are needed as an alternative to commonly used soft lithography in order to produce inexpensive microfluidic devices. In this paper, we present a simple and reliable technique to obtain PDMS based microfluidic devices. We used digital light processing (DLP) 3D printing for rapid fabrication of resin mold for PDMS structures. UV and thermal post-treatment of printed mold led to high quality molds. Thin aluminum film deposition on resin mold provided a buffer layer to prevent PDMS curing inhibition. Glass was used as substrate material and part of the microchannels wall. Resulted microfluidic parts have a reduced roughness and can ensure robust integrity for the microchannels and chambers.