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Pradela Filho LA, Paixão TRLC, Nordin GP, Woolley AT. Leveraging the third dimension in microfluidic devices using 3D printing: no longer just scratching the surface. Anal Bioanal Chem 2024; 416:2031-2037. [PMID: 37470814 PMCID: PMC10799186 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-023-04862-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
3D printers utilize cutting-edge technologies to create three-dimensional objects and are attractive tools for engineering compact microfluidic platforms with complex architectures for chemical and biochemical analyses. 3D printing's popularity is associated with the freedom of creating intricate designs using inexpensive instrumentation, and these tools can produce miniaturized platforms in minutes, facilitating fabrication scaleup. This work discusses key challenges in producing three-dimensional microfluidic structures using currently available 3D printers, addressing considerations about printer capabilities and software limitations encountered in the design and processing of new architectures. This article further communicates the benefits of using three-dimensional structures, including the ability to scalably produce miniaturized analytical systems and the possibility of combining them with multiple processes, such as mixing, pumping, pre-concentration, and detection. Besides increasing analytical applicability, such three-dimensional architectures are important in the eventual design of commercial devices since they can decrease user interferences and reduce the volume of reagents or samples required, making assays more reliable and rapid. Moreover, this manuscript provides insights into research directions involving 3D-printed microfluidic devices. Finally, this work offers an outlook for future developments to provide and take advantage of 3D microfluidic functionality in 3D printing. Graphical abstract Creating three-dimensional microfluidic structures using 3D printing will enable key advances and novel applications in (bio)chemical analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauro A Pradela Filho
- Department of Chemistry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
| | | | - Gregory P Nordin
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
| | - Adam T Woolley
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA.
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2
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Boaks M, Roper C, Viglione M, Hooper K, Woolley AT, Christensen KA, Nordin GP. Biocompatible High-Resolution 3D-Printed Microfluidic Devices: Integrated Cell Chemotaxis Demonstration. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:1589. [PMID: 37630125 PMCID: PMC10456398 DOI: 10.3390/mi14081589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
We demonstrate a method to effectively 3D print microfluidic devices with high-resolution features using a biocompatible resin based on avobenzone as the UV absorber. Our method relies on spectrally shaping the 3D printer source spectrum so that it is fully overlapped by avobenzone's absorption spectrum. Complete overlap is essential to effectively limit the optical penetration depth, which is required to achieve high out-of-plane resolution. We demonstrate the high resolution in practice by 3D printing 15 μm square pillars in a microfluidic chamber, where the pillars are separated by 7.7 μm and are printed with 5 μm layers. Furthermore, we show reliable membrane valves and pumps using the biocompatible resin. Valves are tested to 1,000,000 actuations with no observable degradation in performance. Finally, we create a concentration gradient generation (CG) component and utilize it in two device designs for cell chemotaxis studies. The first design relies on an external dual syringe pump to generate source and sink flows to supply the CG channel, while the second is a complete integrated device incorporating on-chip pumps, valves, and reservoirs. Both device types are seeded with adherent cells that are subjected to a chemoattractant CG, and both show clear evidence of chemotactic cellular migration. Moreover, the integrated device demonstrates cellular migration comparable to the external syringe pump device. This demonstration illustrates the effectiveness of our integrated chemotactic assay approach and high-resolution biocompatible resin 3D printing fabrication process. In addition, our 3D printing process has been tuned for rapid fabrication, as printing times for the two device designs are, respectively, 8 and 15 min.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mawla Boaks
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Connor Roper
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Matthew Viglione
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Kent Hooper
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Adam T. Woolley
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Kenneth A. Christensen
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Gregory P. Nordin
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
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3
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Milton LA, Viglione MS, Ong LJY, Nordin GP, Toh YC. Vat photopolymerization 3D printed microfluidic devices for organ-on-a-chip applications. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:3537-3560. [PMID: 37476860 PMCID: PMC10448871 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00094j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Organs-on-a-chip, or OoCs, are microfluidic tissue culture devices with micro-scaled architectures that repeatedly achieve biomimicry of biological phenomena. They are well positioned to become the primary pre-clinical testing modality as they possess high translational value. Current methods of fabrication have facilitated the development of many custom OoCs that have generated promising results. However, the reliance on microfabrication and soft lithographic fabrication techniques has limited their prototyping turnover rate and scalability. Additive manufacturing, known commonly as 3D printing, shows promise to expedite this prototyping process, while also making fabrication easier and more reproducible. We briefly introduce common 3D printing modalities before identifying two sub-types of vat photopolymerization - stereolithography (SLA) and digital light processing (DLP) - as the most advantageous fabrication methods for the future of OoC development. We then outline the motivations for shifting to 3D printing, the requirements for 3D printed OoCs to be competitive with the current state of the art, and several considerations for achieving successful 3D printed OoC devices touching on design and fabrication techniques, including a survey of commercial and custom 3D printers and resins. In all, we aim to form a guide for the end-user to facilitate the in-house generation of 3D printed OoCs, along with the future translation of these important devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura A Milton
- School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia.
- Centre for Biomedical Technologies, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Matthew S Viglione
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah, USA.
| | - Louis Jun Ye Ong
- School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia.
- Centre for Biomedical Technologies, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
- Max Planck Queensland Centre (MPQC) for the Materials Science of Extracellular Matrices, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Gregory P Nordin
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah, USA.
| | - Yi-Chin Toh
- School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia.
- Centre for Biomedical Technologies, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
- Max Planck Queensland Centre (MPQC) for the Materials Science of Extracellular Matrices, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Microbiome Research, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
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Hinnen H, Viglione M, Munro TR, Woolley AT, Nordin GP. 3D-Printed Microfluidic One-Way Valves and Pumps. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:1286. [PMID: 37512597 PMCID: PMC10384158 DOI: 10.3390/mi14071286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
New microfluidic lab-on-a-chip capabilities are enabled by broadening the toolkit of devices that can be created using microfabrication processes. For example, complex geometries made possible by 3D printing can be used to approach microfluidic design and application in new or enhanced ways. In this paper, we demonstrate three distinct designs for microfluidic one-way (check) valves that can be fabricated using digital light processing stereolithography (DLP-SLA) with a poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) resin, each with an internal volume of 5-10 nL. By mapping flow rate to pressure in both the forward and reverse directions, we compare the different designs and their operating characteristics. We also demonstrate pumps for each one-way valve design comprised of two one-way valves with a membrane valve displacement chamber between them. An advantage of such pumps is that they require a single pneumatic input instead of three as for conventional 3D-printed pumps. We also characterize the achievable flow rate as a function of the pneumatic control signal period. We show that such pumps can be used to create a single-stage diffusion mixer with significantly reduced pneumatic drive complexity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hunter Hinnen
- Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Matthew Viglione
- Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Troy R. Munro
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Adam T. Woolley
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Gregory P. Nordin
- Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
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Su R, Wang F, McAlpine MC. 3D printed microfluidics: advances in strategies, integration, and applications. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:1279-1299. [PMID: 36779387 DOI: 10.1039/d2lc01177h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The ability to construct multiplexed micro-systems for fluid regulation could substantially impact multiple fields, including chemistry, biology, biomedicine, tissue engineering, and soft robotics, among others. 3D printing is gaining traction as a compelling approach to fabricating microfluidic devices by providing unique capabilities, such as 1) rapid design iteration and prototyping, 2) the potential for automated manufacturing and alignment, 3) the incorporation of numerous classes of materials within a single platform, and 4) the integration of 3D microstructures with prefabricated devices, sensing arrays, and nonplanar substrates. However, to widely deploy 3D printed microfluidics at research and commercial scales, critical issues related to printing factors, device integration strategies, and incorporation of multiple functionalities require further development and optimization. In this review, we summarize important figures of merit of 3D printed microfluidics and inspect recent progress in the field, including ink properties, structural resolutions, and hierarchical levels of integration with functional platforms. Particularly, we highlight advances in microfluidic devices printed with thermosetting elastomers, printing methodologies with enhanced degrees of automation and resolution, and the direct printing of microfluidics on various 3D surfaces. The substantial progress in the performance and multifunctionality of 3D printed microfluidics suggests a rapidly approaching era in which these versatile devices could be untethered from microfabrication facilities and created on demand by users in arbitrary settings with minimal prior training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruitao Su
- School of Mechanical and Power Engineering, Zhengzhou University, 100 Science Avenue, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, China
| | - Fujun Wang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Minnesota, 111 Church Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
| | - Michael C McAlpine
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Minnesota, 111 Church Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
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Warr CA, Crawford NG, Nordin GP, Pitt WG. Surface Modification of 3D Printed Microfluidic Devices for Controlled Wetting in Two-Phase Flow. MICROMACHINES 2022; 14:6. [PMID: 36677067 PMCID: PMC9866927 DOI: 10.3390/mi14010006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Microfluidic devices (MFDs) printed in 3-D geometry using digital light projection to polymerize monomers often have surfaces that are not as hydrophobic as MFDs made from polydimethylsiloxane. Droplet microfluidics in these types of devices are subject to droplet adhesion and aqueous spreading on less hydrophobic MFD surfaces. We have developed a post-processing technique using hydrophobic monomers that renders the surfaces of these devices much more hydrophobic. The technique is fast and easy, and involves flowing monomer without initiator into the channels and then exposing the entire device to UV light that generates radicals from the initiator molecules remaining in the original 3-D polymerization. After treatment the channels can be cleared and the surface is more hydrophobic, as evidenced by higher contact angles with aqueous droplets. We hypothesize that radicals generated near the previously printed surfaces initiate polymerization of the hydrophobic monomers on the surfaces without bulk polymerization extending into the channels. The most hydrophobic surfaces were produced by treatment with an alkyl acrylate and a fluorinated acrylate. This technique could be used for surface treatment with other types of monomers to impart unique characteristics to channels in MFDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandler A. Warr
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Nicole G. Crawford
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Gregory P. Nordin
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - William G. Pitt
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
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Garcia-Rey S, Nielsen JB, Nordin GP, Woolley AT, Basabe-Desmonts L, Benito-Lopez F. High-Resolution 3D Printing Fabrication of a Microfluidic Platform for Blood Plasma Separation. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14132537. [PMID: 35808588 PMCID: PMC9269563 DOI: 10.3390/polym14132537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Additive manufacturing technology is an emerging method for rapid prototyping, which enables the creation of complex geometries by one-step fabrication processes through a layer-by-layer approach. The simplified fabrication achieved with this methodology opens the way towards a more efficient industrial production, with applications in a great number of fields such as biomedical devices. In biomedicine, blood is the gold-standard biofluid for clinical analysis. However, blood cells generate analytical interferences in many test procedures; hence, it is important to separate plasma from blood cells before analytical testing of blood samples. In this research, a custom-made resin formulation combined with a high-resolution 3D printing methodology were used to achieve a methodology for the fast prototype optimization of an operative plasma separation modular device. Through an iterative process, 17 different prototypes were designed and fabricated with printing times ranging from 5 to 12 min. The final device was evaluated through colorimetric analysis, validating this fabrication approach for the qualitative assessment of plasma separation from whole blood. The 3D printing method used here demonstrates the great contribution that this microfluidic technology will bring to the plasma separation biomedical devices market.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Garcia-Rey
- Microfluidics Cluster UPV/EHU, Analytical Microsystems & Materials for Lab-on-a-Chip (AMMa-LOAC) Group, Analytical Chemistry Department, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 48940 Leioa, Spain;
- Microfluidics Cluster UPV/EHU, BIOMICs Microfluidics Group, Lascaray Research Center, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Jacob B. Nielsen
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA;
| | - Gregory P. Nordin
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA;
| | - Adam T. Woolley
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA;
- Correspondence: (A.T.W.); (L.B.-D.); (F.B.-L.)
| | - Lourdes Basabe-Desmonts
- Microfluidics Cluster UPV/EHU, BIOMICs Microfluidics Group, Lascaray Research Center, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
- Bioaraba Health Research Institute, Microfluidics Cluster UPV/EHU, 01009 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
- BCMaterials, Basque Center for Materials, Applications and Nanostructures, UPV/EHU Science Park, 48940 Leioa, Spain
- Basque Foundation of Science, IKERBASQUE, Calle María Díaz de Haro 3, 48013 Bilbao, Spain
- Correspondence: (A.T.W.); (L.B.-D.); (F.B.-L.)
| | - Fernando Benito-Lopez
- Microfluidics Cluster UPV/EHU, Analytical Microsystems & Materials for Lab-on-a-Chip (AMMa-LOAC) Group, Analytical Chemistry Department, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 48940 Leioa, Spain;
- Bioaraba Health Research Institute, Microfluidics Cluster UPV/EHU, 01009 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
- BCMaterials, Basque Center for Materials, Applications and Nanostructures, UPV/EHU Science Park, 48940 Leioa, Spain
- Correspondence: (A.T.W.); (L.B.-D.); (F.B.-L.)
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Tseng HY, Lizama JH, Alvarado NAS, Hou HH. Lab-on-PCB: One step away from the accomplishment of μTAS? BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2022; 16:031302. [PMID: 35761964 PMCID: PMC9233562 DOI: 10.1063/5.0091228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The techniques, protocols, and advancements revolving around printed circuit boards (PCBs) have been gaining sustained attention in the realm of micro-total analysis systems (μTAS) as more and more efforts are devoted to searching for standardized, highly reliable, and industry-friendly solutions for point-of-care diagnostics. In this Perspective, we set out to identify the current state in which the field of μTAS finds itself, the challenges encountered by researchers in the implementation of these technologies, and the potential improvements that can be targeted to meet the current demands. We also line up some trending innovations, such as 3D printing and wearable devices, along with the development of lab-on-PCB to increase the possibility of multifunctional biosensing activities propelled by integrated microfluidic networks for a wider range of applications, anticipating to catalyze the full potential of μTAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiu-Yang Tseng
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei 106, Taiwan
| | - Jose H. Lizama
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei 106, Taiwan
| | - Noel A. S. Alvarado
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei 106, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Han Hou
- Graduate Institute of Oral Biology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan
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Almughamsi HM, Howell KM, Parry SR, Esene JE, Nielsen JB, Nordin GP, Woolley AT. Immunoaffinity monoliths for multiplexed extraction of preterm birth biomarkers from human blood serum in 3D printed microfluidic devices. Analyst 2022; 147:734-743. [PMID: 35103723 PMCID: PMC8849610 DOI: 10.1039/d1an01365c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In an effort to develop biomarker-based diagnostics for preterm birth (PTB) risk, we created 3D printed microfluidic devices with multiplexed immunoaffinity monoliths to selectively extract multiple PTB biomarkers. The equilibrium dissociation constant for each monoclonal antibody toward its target PTB biomarker was determined. We confirmed the covalent attachment of three different individual antibodies to affinity monoliths using fluorescence imaging. Three different PTB biomarkers were successfully extracted from human blood serum using their respective single-antibody columns. Selective binding of each antibody toward its target biomarker was observed. Finally, we extracted and eluted three PTB biomarkers from depleted human blood serum in multiplexed immunoaffinity columns in 3D printed microfluidic devices. This is the first demonstration of multiplexed immunoaffinity extraction of PTB biomarkers in 3D printed microfluidic devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haifa M. Almughamsi
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Karyna M. Howell
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Samuel R. Parry
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Joule E. Esene
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Jacob B. Nielsen
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Gregory P. Nordin
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Adam T. Woolley
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA,corresponding author: ; 1-801-422-1701
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10
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Matheuse F, Vanmol K, Van Erps J, De Malsche W, Ottevaere H, Desmet G. On the potential use of two-photon polymerization to 3D print chromatographic packed bed supports. J Chromatogr A 2021; 1663:462763. [PMID: 34968955 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2021.462763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The continuous quest for chromatographic supports offering kinetic performance properties superior to that of the packed bed of spheres has pushed the field to consider alternative formats such as for example monolithic and pillar array columns. This quest seems bound to culminate in the use of 3D printing technology, as this intrinsically offers the possibility to produce supports with a perfect uniformity and with a size and shape that is fully optimized for the chromatographic separation process. However, to be competitive with the current state-of-the-art, structures with sub-micron feature sizes are required. The present contribution therefore investigates the use of the 3D printing technology with the highest possible resolution available today, i.e., two-photon polymerization (2PP). It is shown that 2PP printing is capable of achieving the required ≤ 1 µm printing resolution. Depending on the laser scan speed, the lower limit through-pore size for a tetrahedral skeleton monolith with a theoretical 80% external porosity was found to be at 800 nm, when printing at a scan speed of 50 mm/s with a laser power of 10%. For a scan speed of 10 mm/s, the minimal through-pore size dropped to 500 nm. However, this very high resolution comes at the cost of excessively long printing times. The total printing time for a column volume equivalent to that of a typical nano-LC column (75 µm i.d. cylindrical tube with length L = 15 cm) has been determined to correspond to 330 and 470 h for the 50 mm/s and the 10 mm/s scan speed respectively. Other issues remaining to be solved are the need to clad the printed skeleton with a suitable mesoporous layer for chromatographic retention and the need to add a top-wall to the printed channels after the removal of the non-polymerized resin. It is therefore concluded that 2PP printing is not ready yet to replace the existing column fabrication methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fréderick Matheuse
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Koen Vanmol
- Department of Applied Physics and Photonics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel and Flanders Make, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jürgen Van Erps
- Department of Applied Physics and Photonics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel and Flanders Make, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Wim De Malsche
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Heidi Ottevaere
- Department of Applied Physics and Photonics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel and Flanders Make, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Gert Desmet
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
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Sanchez Noriega JL, Chartrand NA, Valdoz JC, Cribbs CG, Jacobs DA, Poulson D, Viglione MS, Woolley AT, Van Ry PM, Christensen KA, Nordin GP. Spatially and optically tailored 3D printing for highly miniaturized and integrated microfluidics. Nat Commun 2021; 12:5509. [PMID: 34535656 PMCID: PMC8448845 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-25788-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Traditional 3D printing based on Digital Light Processing Stereolithography (DLP-SL) is unnecessarily limiting as applied to microfluidic device fabrication, especially for high-resolution features. This limitation is due primarily to inherent tradeoffs between layer thickness, exposure time, material strength, and optical penetration that can be impossible to satisfy for microfluidic features. We introduce a generalized 3D printing process that significantly expands the accessible spatially distributed optical dose parameter space to enable the fabrication of much higher resolution 3D components without increasing the resolution of the 3D printer. Here we demonstrate component miniaturization in conjunction with a high degree of integration, including 15 μm × 15 μm valves and a 2.2 mm × 1.1 mm 10-stage 2-fold serial diluter. These results illustrate our approach's promise to enable highly functional and compact microfluidic devices for a wide variety of biomolecular applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose L Sanchez Noriega
- Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Nicholas A Chartrand
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Jonard Corpuz Valdoz
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Collin G Cribbs
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Dallin A Jacobs
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Daniel Poulson
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Matthew S Viglione
- Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Adam T Woolley
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Pam M Van Ry
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Kenneth A Christensen
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Gregory P Nordin
- Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA.
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12
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Larson K, Hammond A, Carver C, Anderson D, Viglione M, Boaks M, Nordin G, Camacho RM. Post-fabrication tuning of microring resonators using 3D-printed microfluidics. OPTICS LETTERS 2021; 46:4650-4653. [PMID: 34525073 PMCID: PMC9362736 DOI: 10.1364/ol.433987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
We demonstrate a method of tuning the resonant frequencies of silicon microring resonators using a 3D-printed microfluidic chip overlaid directly on the photonic circuit with zero energy consumption following the initial tuning. Aqueous solutions with different concentrations of NaCl are used in experimentation. A shift of a full free spectral range is observed at a concentration of 10% NaCl. On a 60 µm microring resonator, this equals a resonant wavelength shift of 1.514 nm when the index of the cladding changes by 0.017 refractive index units (RIUs), or at a rate of 89.05 nm/RIU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Larson
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo UT 84604
| | - Alec Hammond
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta GA 30332
| | - Christian Carver
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo UT 84604
| | - Derek Anderson
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo UT 84604
| | - Matthew Viglione
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo UT 84604
| | - Mawla Boaks
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo UT 84604
| | - Greg Nordin
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo UT 84604
| | - Ryan M. Camacho
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo UT 84604
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13
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Carver C, Boaks M, Kim J, Larson K, Nordin GP, Camacho RM. Automated Photonic Tuning of Silicon Microring Resonators Using a 3D-printed Microfluidic Mixer. OSA CONTINUUM 2021; 4:2075-2081. [PMID: 36406286 PMCID: PMC9674119 DOI: 10.1364/osac.425058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
We demonstrate a novel method to automate tuning of microring resonators using 3D-printed microfluidic control capable of resonance wavelength shifts of 4 nm. We use a custom 3D-printer that can fabricate microfluidic devices with sub-10 μm features and that perform automatic pumping, mixing, and dilution operations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Carver
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah 84602, USA
| | - Mawla Boaks
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah 84602, USA
| | - JuHang Kim
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah 84602, USA
| | - Kevin Larson
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah 84602, USA
| | - Gregory P. Nordin
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah 84602, USA
| | - Ryan M. Camacho
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah 84602, USA
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14
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Li X, He Z, Li C, Li P. One-step enzyme kinetics measurement in 3D printed microfluidics devices based on a high-performance single vibrating sharp-tip mixer. Anal Chim Acta 2021; 1172:338677. [PMID: 34119024 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2021.338677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Measuring enzyme kinetics is of great importance to understand many biological processes and improve biosensing and industrial applications. Conventional methods of measuring enzyme kinetics require to prepare a series of solutions with different substrate concentrations and measure the signal response over time with these solutions, leading to tedious sample preparation steps, high reagents/sample consumption, and difficulties in studying fast enzyme kinetics. Here we report a one-step assay to measure enzyme kinetics using a 3D-printed microfluidic device, which eliminates the steps of preparing and handling multiple solutions thereby simplifying the whole workflow significantly. The assay is enabled by a highly efficient vibrating sharp-tip mixing method that can mix multiple streams of fluids with minimal mixing length (∼300 μm) and time (as low as 3 ms), and a wide range of working flow rates from 1.5 μL/min to 750 μL/min. Owing to the high performance of the mixer, a series of experiments with different substrate concentrations are performed by simply adjusting the flow rates of reagents loaded from three inlets in one experiment run. The Michaelis-Menten kinetics of the horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-catalyzed reaction between H2O2 and amplex red is measured in this system. The calculated Michaelis constant is consistent with the values from literature and conventional analysis methods. Due to the simplicity in fabrication and operation, rapid analysis, low power consumption (1.4-45.0 mW), and high temporal resolution, this method will significantly facilitate enzyme kinetics measurement, and offers great potential for optimizing enzyme based biosensing experiments and probing many biochemical processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojun Li
- C. Eugene Bennett Department of Chemistry, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Ziyi He
- C. Eugene Bennett Department of Chemistry, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Chong Li
- C. Eugene Bennett Department of Chemistry, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Peng Li
- C. Eugene Bennett Department of Chemistry, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA.
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15
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Davis JJ, Foster SW, Grinias JP. Low-cost and open-source strategies for chemical separations. J Chromatogr A 2021; 1638:461820. [PMID: 33453654 PMCID: PMC7870555 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2020.461820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 12/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, a trend toward utilizing open access resources for laboratory research has begun. Open-source design strategies for scientific hardware rely upon the use of widely available parts, especially those that can be directly printed using additive manufacturing techniques and electronic components that can be connected to low-cost microcontrollers. Open-source software eliminates the need for expensive commercial licenses and provides the opportunity to design programs for specific needs. In this review, the impact of the "open-source movement" within the field of chemical separations is described, primarily through a comprehensive look at research in this area over the past five years. Topics that are covered include general laboratory equipment, sample preparation techniques, separations-based analysis, detection strategies, electronic system control, and software for data processing. Remaining hurdles and possible opportunities for further adoption of open-source approaches in the context of these separations-related topics are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua J Davis
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ 08028, United States
| | - Samuel W Foster
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ 08028, United States
| | - James P Grinias
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ 08028, United States.
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16
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Warr CA, Hinnen HS, Avery S, Cate RJ, Nordin GP, Pitt WG. 3D-Printed Microfluidic Droplet Generator with Hydrophilic and Hydrophobic Polymers. MICROMACHINES 2021; 12:mi12010091. [PMID: 33467026 PMCID: PMC7830873 DOI: 10.3390/mi12010091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Droplet generation has been widely used in conventional two-dimensional (2D) microfluidic devices, and has recently begun to be explored for 3D-printed droplet generators. A major challenge for 3D-printed devices is preventing water-in-oil droplets from sticking to the interior surfaces of the droplet generator when the device is not made from hydrophobic materials. In this study, two approaches were investigated and shown to successfully form droplets in 3D-printed microfluidic devices. First, several printing resin candidates were tested to evaluate their suitability for droplet formation and material properties. We determined that a hexanediol diacrylate/lauryl acrylate (HDDA/LA) resin forms a solid polymer that is sufficiently hydrophobic to prevent aqueous droplets (in a continuous oil flow) from attaching to the device walls. The second approach uses a fully 3D annular channel-in-channel geometry to form microfluidic droplets that do not contact channel walls, and thus, this geometry can be used with hydrophilic resins. Stable droplets were shown to form using the channel-in-channel geometry, and the droplet size and generation frequency for this geometry were explored for various flow rates for the continuous and dispersed phases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandler A. Warr
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA;
| | - Hunter S. Hinnen
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA; (H.S.H.); (S.A.); (R.J.C.); (G.P.N.)
| | - Saroya Avery
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA; (H.S.H.); (S.A.); (R.J.C.); (G.P.N.)
| | - Rebecca J. Cate
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA; (H.S.H.); (S.A.); (R.J.C.); (G.P.N.)
| | - Gregory P. Nordin
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA; (H.S.H.); (S.A.); (R.J.C.); (G.P.N.)
| | - William G. Pitt
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA;
- Correspondence:
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17
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Alsharhan AT, Stair AJ, Acevedo R, Razaulla T, Warren R, Sochol RD. Direct Laser Writing for Deterministic Lateral Displacement of Submicron Particles. JOURNAL OF MICROELECTROMECHANICAL SYSTEMS 2020; 29:906-911. [DOI: 10.1109/jmems.2020.2998958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
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18
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Nielsen AV, Beauchamp MJ, Nordin GP, Woolley AT. 3D Printed Microfluidics. ANNUAL REVIEW OF ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY (PALO ALTO, CALIF.) 2020; 13:45-65. [PMID: 31821017 PMCID: PMC7282950 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-anchem-091619-102649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 147] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Traditional microfabrication techniques suffer from several disadvantages, including the inability to create truly three-dimensional (3D) architectures, expensive and time-consuming processes when changing device designs, and difficulty in transitioning from prototyping fabrication to bulk manufacturing. 3D printing is an emerging technique that could overcome these disadvantages. While most 3D printed fluidic devices and features to date have been on the millifluidic size scale, some truly microfluidic devices have been shown. Currently, stereolithography is the most promising approach for routine creation of microfluidic structures, but several approaches under development also have potential. Microfluidic 3D printing is still in an early stage, similar to where polydimethylsiloxane was two decades ago. With additional work to advance printer hardware and software control, expand and improve resin and printing material selections, and realize additional applications for 3D printed devices, we foresee 3D printing becoming the dominant microfluidic fabrication method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna V Nielsen
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah 84602, USA;
| | - Michael J Beauchamp
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah 84602, USA;
| | - Gregory P Nordin
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah 84602, USA
| | - Adam T Woolley
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah 84602, USA;
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19
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Camacho RM, Fish D, Simmons M, Awerkamp P, Anderson R, Carlson S, Laney J, Viglione M, Nordin GP. Self-Sustaining 3D Thin Liquid Films in Ambient Environments. ADVANCED MATERIALS INTERFACES 2020; 7:1901887. [PMID: 33072494 PMCID: PMC7566691 DOI: 10.1002/admi.201901887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Thin liquid films (TLF) have fundamental and technological importance ranging from the thermodynamics of cell membranes to the safety of light-water cooled nuclear reactors. The creation of stable water TLFs, however, is very difficult. In this paper, the realization of thin liquid films of water with custom 3D geometries that persist indefinitely in ambient environments is reported. The wetting films are generated using microscale "mounts" fed by microfluidic channels with small feature sizes and large aspect ratios. These devices are fabricated with a custom 3D printer and resin, which were developed to print high resolution microfluidic geometries as detailed in Reference 26. By modifying the 3D-printed polymer to be hydrophilic and taking advantage of well-known wetting principles and capillary effects, self-sustaining microscale "water fountains" are constructed that continuously replenish water lost to evaporation while relying on surface tension to stabilize their shape. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first demonstration of stable sub-micron thin liquid films (TLFs) of pure water on curved 3D geometries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan M Camacho
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84604, USA
| | - Davin Fish
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84604, USA
| | - Matthew Simmons
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84604, USA
| | - Parker Awerkamp
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84604, USA
| | - Rebecca Anderson
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84604, USA
| | - Stephanie Carlson
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84604, USA
| | - Joshua Laney
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84604, USA
| | - Matthew Viglione
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84604, USA
| | - Gregory P Nordin
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84604, USA
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20
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Warr C, Valdoz JC, Bickham BP, Knight CJ, Franks NA, Chartrand N, Van Ry PM, Christensen KA, Nordin GP, Cook AD. Biocompatible PEGDA Resin for 3D Printing. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2020; 3:2239-2244. [PMID: 32467881 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.0c00055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
We report a non-cytotoxic resin compatible with and designed for use in custom high-resolution 3D printers that follow the design approach described in Gong et al., Lab Chip 17, 2899 (2017). The non-cytotoxic resin is based on a poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) monomer with avobenzone as the UV absorber instead of 2-nitrophenyl phenyl sulfide (NPS). Both NPS-PEGDA and avobenzone-PEGDA (A-PEGDA) resins were evaluated for cytotoxicity and cell adhesion. We show that NPS-PEGDA can be made effectively non-cytotoxic with a post-print 12-hour ethanol wash, and that A-PEGDA, as-printed, is effectively non-cytotoxic. 3D prints made with either resin do not support strong cell adhesion in their as-printed state; however, cell adhesion increases dramatically with a short plasma treatment. Using A-PEGDA, we demonstrate spheroid formation in ultra-low adhesion 3D printed wells, and cell migration from spheroids on plasma-treated adherent surfaces. Given that A-PEGDA can be 3D printed with high resolution, it has significant promise for a wide variety of cell-based applications using 3D printed microfluidic structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandler Warr
- Chemical Engineering Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah, USA 84602
| | - Jonard Corpuz Valdoz
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah, USA 84602
| | - Bryce P Bickham
- Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah, USA 84602
| | - Connor J Knight
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah, USA 84602
| | - Nicholas A Franks
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah, USA 84602
| | - Nicholas Chartrand
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah, USA 84602
| | - Pam M Van Ry
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah, USA 84602
| | - Kenneth A Christensen
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah, USA 84602
| | - Gregory P Nordin
- Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah, USA 84602
| | - Alonzo D Cook
- Chemical Engineering Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah, USA 84602
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21
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Longwell SA, Fordyce PM. micrIO: an open-source autosampler and fraction collector for automated microfluidic input-output. LAB ON A CHIP 2020; 20:93-106. [PMID: 31701110 PMCID: PMC6923132 DOI: 10.1039/c9lc00512a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Microfluidic devices are an enabling technology for many labs, facilitating a wide range of applications spanning high-throughput encapsulation, molecular separations, and long-term cell culture. In many cases, however, their utility is limited by a 'world-to-chip' barrier that makes it difficult to serially interface samples with these devices. As a result, many researchers are forced to rely on low-throughput, manual approaches for managing device input and output (IO) of samples, reagents, and effluent. Here, we present a hardware-software platform for automated microfluidic IO (micrIO). The platform, which is uniquely compatible with positive-pressure microfluidics, comprises an 'AutoSipper' for input and a 'Fraction Collector' for output. To facilitate widespread adoption, both are open-source builds constructed from components that are readily purchased online or fabricated from included design files. The software control library, written in Python, allows the platform to be integrated with existing experimental setups and to coordinate IO with other functions such as valve actuation and assay imaging. We demonstrate these capabilities by coupling both the AutoSipper and Fraction Collector to two microfluidic devices: a simple, valved inlet manifold and a microfluidic droplet generator that produces beads with distinct spectral codes. Analysis of the collected materials in each case establishes the ability of the platform to draw from and output to specific wells of multiwell plates with negligible cross-contamination between samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott A Longwell
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - Polly M Fordyce
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA. and Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA and ChEM-H Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA and Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, USA
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22
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Kotz F, Helmer D, Rapp BE. Emerging Technologies and Materials for High-Resolution 3D Printing of Microfluidic Chips. ADVANCES IN BIOCHEMICAL ENGINEERING/BIOTECHNOLOGY 2020; 179:37-66. [PMID: 32797271 DOI: 10.1007/10_2020_141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, 3D printing has had a huge impact on the field of biotechnology: from 3D-printed pharmaceuticals to tissue engineering and microfluidic chips. Microfluidic chips are of particular interest and importance for the field of biotechnology, since they allow for the analysis and screening of a wide range of biomolecules - including single cells, proteins, and DNA. The fabrication of microfluidic chips has historically been time-consuming, however, and is typically limited to 2.5 dimensional structures and a restricted palette of well-known materials. Due to the high surface-to-volume ratios in microfluidic chips, the nature of the chip material is of paramount importance to the final system behavior. With the emergence of 3D printing, however, a wide range of microfluidic systems are now being printed for the first time in a manner that facilitates flexibility while minimizing time and cost. Nevertheless, resolution and material choices still remain challenges and in the focus of current research, aiming for (1) 3D printing with high resolutions in the range of tens of micrometers and (2) a wider range of available materials for these high-resolution prints. The first part of this chapter highlights recent emerging technologies in the field of high-resolution printing via stereolithography (SL) and 2-photon polymerization (2PP) and seeks to identify particularly interesting emerging technologies which could have a major impact on the field in the near future. The second part of this chapter highlights current developments in the field of materials that are used for these high-resolution 3D printing technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederik Kotz
- Laboratory of Process Technology, NeptunLab, Department of Microsystems Engineering (IMTEK), University Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
- Freiburg Materials Research Center (FMF), University Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Dorothea Helmer
- Laboratory of Process Technology, NeptunLab, Department of Microsystems Engineering (IMTEK), University Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Freiburg Materials Research Center (FMF), University Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- FIT Freiburg Centre for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technologies, University Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Bastian E Rapp
- Laboratory of Process Technology, NeptunLab, Department of Microsystems Engineering (IMTEK), University Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Freiburg Materials Research Center (FMF), University Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- FIT Freiburg Centre for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technologies, University Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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23
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Zhang JM, Ji Q, Duan H. Three-Dimensional Printed Devices in Droplet Microfluidics. MICROMACHINES 2019; 10:E754. [PMID: 31690055 PMCID: PMC6915402 DOI: 10.3390/mi10110754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2019] [Revised: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Droplet microfluidics has become the most promising subcategory of microfluidics since it contributes numerous applications to diverse fields. However, fabrication of microfluidic devices for droplet formation, manipulation and applications is usually complicated and expensive. Three-dimensional printing (3DP) provides an exciting alternative to conventional techniques by simplifying the process and reducing the cost of fabrication. Complex and novel structures can be achieved via 3DP in a simple and rapid manner, enabling droplet microfluidics accessible to more extensive users. In this article, we review and discuss current development, opportunities and challenges of applications of 3DP to droplet microfluidics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Ming Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Turbulence and Complex Systems, Department of Mechanics and Engineering Science, BIC-ESAT, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China.
| | - Qinglei Ji
- Department of Production Engineering, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, SE-100 44 Stockholm, Sweden.
- Department of Machine Design, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, SE-100 44 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Huiling Duan
- State Key Laboratory for Turbulence and Complex Systems, Department of Mechanics and Engineering Science, BIC-ESAT, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China.
- CAPT, HEDPS and IFSA Collaborative Innovation Center of MoE, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China.
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