3D-printed microfluidic devices with short nanofibers incorporated

Abstract

Microfabrication free methods for manufacturing microfluidic devices is key to lower entry cost for microfluidics. Using a modified fused deposition modeling (FDM) printer and electrospinning (ES) setup, our team has improved upon an alternative method for incorporating short nanofibers into microfluidic devices. Multiple methods for shortening fibers were examined. It was determined that a combination of cooling, blending, and grinding yielded optimal results. A hydrogel and nanofiber composite material was then tested. Using a custom print path, the printing characteristics of the composite material were identified and print parameters were optimized.