Toner and paper-based fabrication techniques for microfluidic applications

Electrophoresis. 2010 Aug;31(15):2487-98. doi: 10.1002/elps.201000063.

Abstract

The interest in low-cost microfluidic platforms as well as emerging microfabrication techniques has increased considerably over the last years. Toner- and paper-based techniques have appeared as two of the most promising platforms for the production of disposable devices for on-chip applications. This review focuses on recent advances in the fabrication techniques and in the analytical/bioanalytical applications of toner and paper-based devices. The discussion is divided in two parts dealing with (i) toner and (ii) paper devices. Examples of miniaturized devices fabricated by using direct-printing or toner transfer masking in polyester-toner, glass, PDMS as well as conductive platforms as recordable compact disks and printed circuit board are presented. The construction and the use of paper-based devices for off-site diagnosis and bioassays are also described to cover this emerging platform for low-cost diagnostics.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Equipment Design
  • Humans
  • Lab-On-A-Chip Devices* / economics
  • Lab-On-A-Chip Devices* / trends*
  • Microchip Analytical Procedures / economics
  • Microchip Analytical Procedures / trends
  • Microfluidics / economics
  • Microfluidics / instrumentation*
  • Microfluidics / trends
  • Paper