Fabrication and Characterization of Autonomously Self‐Healable and Stretchable Soft Microfluidics. (8th May 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wang, Hualong; Vu, Susanna; Pignanelli, Julia; Abdel Fatah, Tamer; Trant, John F.; Mahshid, Sara; Rondeau‐Gagné, Simon; Ahamed, Mohammed Jalal
• Is Part Of: Advanced sustainable systems. Volume 6:Number 2(2022)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2021-05-08
• Subjects: flexible -- lab‐on‐a‐chip -- microfluidics -- PDMS -- self healable; Sustainable living -- Periodicals; Sustainability -- Periodicals; Green technology -- Periodicals; Periodicals; 628
• DOI: 10.1002/adsu.202100074
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2366-7486

Abstract

Abstract: In this paper, a novel self‐healable and stretchable microfluidics system for next generation wearable lab‐on‐a‐chip is presented. An imine‐based precursor with various metal sources (Co(II), Fe(II), and Zn(II)) is used for the development of an intrinsically autonomous self‐healing microfluidic device. Microfluidics fabrication is performed on the self‐healing substrate layer using a mold transfer method. The mechanical properties of the resulting layer are evaluated using tensile strain pull testing. Microfluidic characteristics including fluid flow, wettability, leak, and fluorescence compatibility are investigated to understand its performance in classical microfluidic applications. The new microfluidic devices are also characterized using scanning‐electron microscopy to evaluate the mold transfer capability. The self‐healing microfluidics and the corresponding detailed fluidic characterization presented in this paper will open new opportunities for microfluidic lab on a chip development for various applications, especially in wearable electronics. Abstract : A soft polymer‐based lab‐on‐a‐chip may undergo wear and tear. Autonomously healable microfluidics that can self‐heal wear and tear is presented, which is ideal for next generation sustainable and reconfigurable microfluidics. Details of fabrication process, material synthesis, and microfluidic characterization of this new material are presented in this paper.