A rapid prototyping method for polymer microfluidics with fixed aspect ratio and 3D tapered channels

Abstract

In this work, a new method of rapidly fabricating thermopolymer and elastomer microfluidic channels has been developed and characterized for production of microfluidics with fixed aspect ratio and 3D tapered channels. A unique way to attain a desired channel depth by simply altering channel width is demonstrated. This rapid prototyping method is compatible with replication methods such as injection molding, hot embossing and elastomer casting and offers the ability to fabricate multiple channel depths (5 μm – 1 mm) simultaneously in a single lithographic step. This method yields facile fabrication of 3-dimensionally tapered channels and polymer lab chips.