Understanding The Role of PDMS in the Microfluidics Realm
The introduction of PDMS into Microfabrication has changed the landscape of microfluidics. Increased efficiency and outcomes are some of the key benefits. Let’s take a closer look into the processes and key benefits of PDMS for microfluidics.
Poly Dimethylsiloxane has been a cornerstone in the field of Microfluidics. It was first introduced in 1998 by George Whiteside and has played a crucial role in the Microfabrication and Microfluidics scene ever since. With an ever-changing Microfluidics field, it is important to stay up-to-date on the changing concepts and the role that PDMS plays in the field.
PDMS in Microfluidics Basics
PDMS(Polydimethylsiloxane) belongs to the silicone family. Its unique features make it the most desirable material in microfluidics. Some of those features include flexibility, biocompatibility, transparency, low solubility, low surface tension, low dielectric constant, and high gas-permeability.
Where does PDMS Get Its Strength?
Capabilities and soft lithography are what strengthen PDMS. Initially, the base monomer is combined thoroughly with the help of its curing agent. Getting rid of air bubbles, this prepolymer passes through the degassing process. After this, it is prepared to be poured into the mold.
PDMS molds: How Are They Made?
Industry experts, like those at Hochuen Medical, make the mold using conventional methods like photolithography, or newer technologies like 3D printing. Regardless of the kind of mold, Poly Dimethylsiloxane can replicate features on the mold from the nanoscale to the macroscale. After curing and removing the Poly Dimethylsiloxane from the mold, the part should be sealed properly by a flat surface. Another benefit of Poly Dimethylsiloxane comes into play here. Let’s find out.
Sealing of PDMS Replica
Sealing the PDMS replica is possible by employing different techniques. Examples of techniques include adhesive bonding, wet bonding, flame bonding, corona surface activation, oxygen plasma bonding, vacuum bonding, physical bonding, and conformal contact. It is important to note that you can reverse some of these techniques while others are not reversible. You can choose any of these based on your purpose. With many of these techniques, you do not have to use a solvent or chemical to achieve the sealing. It is possible to get rid of the probabilities of chemical contamination when you use solvent-free or chemical bonding of Poly Dimethylsiloxane to its substrates.
Understanding the soft lithography of PDMS
The soft lithography of PDMS allows researchers to fabricate devices with multiple layers of this substance. This process is referred to as sandwiching. It means that you can prepare different layers of the PDMS replicas for stacking on top of each other to develop a more complex geometry. When you take the case of sandwiching, you can add other components like porous and non-porous membranes between layers for creating the desired device. Bonding of these membranes can be done in different ways.
Here are a few recommended PDMS bonding methods:
You can coat silicone dioxide on a membrane by sputtering and then can bond it to the Poly Dimethylsiloxane with the help of oxygen plasma.
If you are not seeking any high pressure, you can use an adhesive like double-side tape to attach membranes to Poly Dimethylsiloxane.
You can first treat the membrane using a silane molecule. Then, you can expose PDMS and treated membrane to oxygen plasma for bonding them both.
PDMS-Based Microfluidic Devices: An Industry Changer
Industry experts like Hochuen Medical will guide you in the newest PDMS innovations and application knowledge. By integrating PDMS into your Microfluidics applications, you can expect increased automation opportunities, better project outcomes, and increased efficiency.
