Effects of Hydrogel on Microchannel Formation

Abstract

Microfluidic devices are widely used in biomedical applications owing to their inherent advantages. Currently, most microfluidic devices are fabricated using microfabrication techniques, which require specialized equipment. We have developed a microfabrication-free method for making microfluidic devices via integrating two accessible and simple fabrication techniques: hydrogel molding and electrospinning (ES). Preliminary results demonstrate the feasibility of the method and potential for incorporating complex channels and device optimization. During the 2015 MUSE program, we examined how the composition of hydrogel affects the microchannel formation. The results indicate that the hydrogel with 4% w/v agarose and 16% v/v glycerin provides good workability and generates consistent microchannels. Optimized procedures were also developed to integrate the channel inlets and outlets.