Micro free-flow electrophoresis with injection molded chips

Abstract

In this work we present an approach towards economic free-flow electrophoresis chips fabricated by injection molding as mass replication process. This is achieved by the development of a free-flow electrophoresis chip design suitable for one step molding fabrication. Integrated partitioning bars are incorporated as key elements for bubble segregation. A defined open gap of 20 μm in height and 500 μm in width was integrated between the separation chamber and the electrode channels, acting as a barrier for gas bubbles while maintaining electrical contact by the fluidic junction. Additionally, we present an approach to avoid internal electrodes in FFE microchips for a facile mass production process. The injection molded thermoplastic μFFE chips are ready to use without subsequent labor-intensive implementation of membranes or comparable structures serving as salt bridges.