Development and characterization of on-chip biopolymer membranes.

In lab-on-a-chip applications, filtration is currently performed prior to sample loading or through pre-cast membranes adhered to the substrate. These membranes cannot be patterned to micrometer resolution, and their adhesion may be incompatible with the fabrication process or may introduce contaminants. We have developed an on-chip separation process using a biocompatible polymer that can be patterned and has controllable molecular rejection properties.