Low cost microfluidic device for partial cell separation: Micromilling approach

Abstract

Several studies have already demonstrated that it is possible to perform blood flow studies in microfluidic systems fabricated by using low-cost techniques. However, most of these techniques do not produce microchannels smaller than 100 microns and as a result they have several limitations related to blood cell separation. Recently, manufacturers have been able to produce milling tools smaller than 100 microns, which consequently have promoted the ability of micromilling machines to fabricate microfluidic devices able to perform separation of red blood cells (RBCs) from plasma. In this work, we show the ability of a micromilling machine to manufacture microchannels with dimensions down to 30 microns. Additionally, we show for the first time the ability of the proposed microfluidic device to enhance the cell-free layer close to the walls, leading to perform partial separation of RBCs from plasma.

Study on the Optimum Cutting Parameters of an Aluminum Mold for Effective Bonding Strength of a PDMS Microfluidic Device

“…A key attraction of microfluidics technology is that high precision devices can be rapidly fabricated at low cost. Although numerous fabrication methods exist [ 5 , 6 , 7 ], microfluidic chips are most easily fabricated by molding formable polymers, such as polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), which are primarily fabricated for proof-of-concept microfluidic devices. To ensure correct operation on each fabricated device, microchannel geometry must be accurately imprinted from mold to polymer.…”

Blood Flow Visualization and Measurements in Microfluidic Devices Fabricated by a Micromilling Technique

“…Otherwise, the heat resulting from the high rotation speed can damage the milling tool and the milled channels. After finishing the milling process and cleaning the device with water and detergent, the depth of the microchannels can be measured by means of a 3D optical profiler using confocal and interferometric principle (Sensofar, plu neox) [22].…”

Modelling of the Influence of Tool Runout on Surface Generation in Micro Milling

“…Research has shown that the wall roughness and micro topography can significantly affect the flow and drag along the microfluidic channel path [11], and microreactors often need to control the flow pattern to achieve enhanced mixing, to achieve enhanced mass transfer, and improve the reaction rate. And on the other hand, design and control of wall roughness and micro topography has become an effective means of micro-flow control [12][13][14]. In addition, the micro features size produced by micro milling makes the subsequent finishing processes, e.g., grinding or polishing, expensive or even impossible.…”