Modular Microfluidics: Current Status and Future Prospects
Abstract
:1. Introduction
2. Current Modularization Strategies
2.1. Multilayer Stacking
2.2. Backplate Positioning
2.3. Magnet-Aided Connection
2.4. Electronics Analogs
2.5. Coaxial Systems
2.6. Shape Complementarity
2.7. Threaded Fitting
3. Manufacturability of Microfluidic Modules
3.1. Additive Manufacturing
3.1.1. Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
3.1.2. Stereolithography (SL)
3.1.3. Photopolymer Inkjet 3D Printing
3.2. Subtractive Manufacturing
3.2.1. Micro-Milling
3.2.2. Laser Ablation
3.2.3. Polymer Processes with Subtractive Manufactured Templates
4. Applications Scenarios of Modular Microfluidics
4.1. Modular Microfluidics for Ease of Design
4.2. Modular Microfluidics for Arbitrary Combination
4.3. Modular Microfluidics for High Parallelization
4.4. Modular Microfluidics for Unlimited Extension
4.5. Modular Microfluidics for Parameter Control
4.6. Modular Microfluidics for On-Demand Reconfiguration and Instrumentation
5. Challenges of Modular Microfluidics
5.1. Arbitrariness of Connection
5.2. Dead Volume and Resulting Waste
5.3. Configuration Convenience
5.4. Material and Process Limitations
6. Conclusions and Outlook
- In terms of the breadth of modular microfluidic systems, innovative forms of modular microfluidic systems can be further studied, such as paper-based modular microfluidics [109,110], digital modular microfluidics [111], template modularity-based microfluidics [112], and improved inter-module connections using advanced materials such as self-healing hydrogels [113,114] and superhydrophobic materials [115];
- In terms of the depth of modular microfluidic techniques, by tracking the latest advancement in technology, the use of novel processing techniques and chip materials should further improve the aligning accuracy and performance of modular systems, expanding the range of available modular design. At the same time, the arbitrariness of module connection should be further improved (such as eliminating the need to distinguish between male and female connectors), improving the performance and ease of use of the modular microfluidic systems;
- In terms of applications, versatile modular blocks with sensors and actuators should be implemented for further exploration of meaningful modular microfluidic applications, e.g., replacing currently used nonportable, expertise-requiring analytical instruments with fully modular, portable microfluidic equipment for easy setup of point-of-care testing or rapid response to public health emergencies;
- In the aspect of fundamental research, methods and theories for on-demand reconfiguration of the modular blocks and improvement of the performance of modular interconnections should be studied or adapted from other fields, which will be beneficial for general microfluidic systems;
- • In terms of industrialization, academia should work closely with industry to develop common standards for modular microfluidic systems while developing reliable and easy-to-use modular microfluidic systems to facilitate the dissemination and implementation of technologies.
Author Contributions
Funding
Conflicts of Interest
References
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Manufacturing Methods | Feature (Void) Size [77] | Surface Roughness | Applicability in Modular Design | Advantages | Limitations | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Additive manufacturing | FDM | >300 μm | Coarse | High (arbitrary external shape for interconnections) |
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SL | Usually >150 μm | Medium (fine on forming plane) |
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PolyJet | >200 μm | Fine |
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Subtractive manufacturing | Micro-milling | >50 μm (dependent on endmill size) | Fine | Medium (allows 3D external shape) |
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Laser ablation | >50 μm | Coarse on edges | Low (inapplicable for complex external shape) |
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| |
Subtractive mold-based manufacturing | >5 μm (dependent on template) | Fine |
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Lai, X.; Yang, M.; Wu, H.; Li, D. Modular Microfluidics: Current Status and Future Prospects. Micromachines 2022, 13, 1363. https://doi.org/10.3390/mi13081363
Lai X, Yang M, Wu H, Li D. Modular Microfluidics: Current Status and Future Prospects. Micromachines. 2022; 13(8):1363. https://doi.org/10.3390/mi13081363
Chicago/Turabian StyleLai, Xiaochen, Mingpeng Yang, Hao Wu, and Dachao Li. 2022. "Modular Microfluidics: Current Status and Future Prospects" Micromachines 13, no. 8: 1363. https://doi.org/10.3390/mi13081363