Modifying Wicking Speeds in Paper-Based Microfluidic Devices by Laser-Etching.

Paper-based microfluidic devices are an attractive platform for developing low-cost, point-of-care diagnostic tools. As paper-based devices' detection chemistries become more complex, more complicated devices are required, often entailing the sequential delivery of different liquids or reagents to reaction zones. Most research into flow control has been focused on introducing delays.

Distance and Microsphere Aggregation-Based DNA Detection in a Paper-Based Microfluidic Device.

In paper-based microfluidics, the simplest devices are colorimetric, giving qualitative results. However, getting quantitative data can be quite a bit more difficult. Distance-based devices provide a user-friendly means of obtaining quantitative data without the need for any additional equipment, simply by using an included ruler or calibrated markings.

Using Adhesive Patterning to Construct 3D Paper Microfluidic Devices.

We demonstrate the use of patterned aerosol adhesives to construct both planar and nonplanar 3D paper microfluidic devices. By spraying an aerosol adhesive through a metal stencil, the overall amount of adhesive used in assembling paper microfluidic devices can be significantly reduced. We show on a simple 4-layer planar paper microfluidic device that the optimal adhesive application technique and device construction style depends heavily on desired performance characteristics.

Patterned adhesive enables construction of nonplanar three-dimensional paper microfluidic circuits.

This article discusses the fabrication of planar and nonplanar 3D paper microfluidic circuits through the use of patterned spray adhesive application and origami techniques. The individual paper layers are held together via semi-permanent adhesive bonds without the need for external clamps. Semi-permanent bonds accommodate the repeated folding and unfolding required by complex origami device structures and allow the device to be unfolded post-use to view internally displayed results.