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Issue 12, 2008
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FLASH: A rapid method for prototyping paper-based microfluidic devices

Andres W. Martinez,a  Scott T. Phillips,a  Benjamin J. Wiley,a  Malancha Guptaa  and  George M. Whitesides*a 
Author affiliations

* Corresponding authors

a Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, USA
E-mail: gwhitesides@gmwgroup.harvard.edu

Abstract

This article describes FLASH (Fast Lithographic Activation of Sheets), a rapid method for laboratory prototyping of microfluidic devices in paper. Paper-based microfluidic devices are emerging as a new technology for applications in diagnostics for the developing world, where low cost and simplicity are essential. FLASH is based on photolithography, but requires only a UV lamp and a hotplate; no clean-room or special facilities are required (FLASH patterning can even be performed in sunlight if a UV lamp and hotplate are unavailable). The method provides channels in paper with dimensions as small as 200 µm in width and 70 µm in height; the height is defined by the thickness of the paper. Photomasks for patterning paper-based microfluidic devices can be printed using an ink-jet printer or photocopier, or drawn by hand using a waterproof black pen. FLASH provides a straightforward method for prototyping paper-based microfluidic devices in regions where the technological support for conventional photolithography is not available.

Graphical abstract: FLASH: A rapid method for prototyping paper-based microfluidic devices

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Publication details

The article was received on 02 Jul 2008, accepted on 18 Jul 2008 and first published on 22 Aug 2008


Article type: Technical Note
DOI: 10.1039/B811135A
Citation: Lab Chip, 2008,8, 2146-2150
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    FLASH: A rapid method for prototyping paper-based microfluidic devices

    A. W. Martinez, S. T. Phillips, B. J. Wiley, M. Gupta and G. M. Whitesides, Lab Chip, 2008, 8, 2146
    DOI: 10.1039/B811135A

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