Automated Nanoliter Volume Assay Optimization on a Cost-Effective Microfluidic Disc.

Optimizing multireagent assays often requires successive titration of individual components until the optimal combination of conditions is achieved. This process is time-consuming, laborious, and often expensive since parallelized experimentation requires bulk consumption of reagents. Microfluidics presents a solution through miniaturization of standard processes by reducing reaction volume, executing multiple parallel workflows, and enabling automation.

Microwave-assisted extraction, separation, and chromogenic detection of laced marijuana for presumptive point-of-interdiction testing.

Presumptive drug screening enables timely procurement of search and arrest warrants and represents a crucial first step in crime scene analysis. Screening also reduces the burden on forensic laboratories which often face insurmountable backlogs. In most scenarios, on-site presumptive drug screening relies on chemical field tests for initial identification.