Fabrication of 2D/3D Paper based Microfluidic Channels using Canvas Sheets and Tissue Papers

Paper-based Microfluidic devices are of great importance and interest due to their portability, versatility, and ease to handle. Microfluidic devices can be made using a wide variety of materials ranging from cellulose to glass or polymer and each type can bring different functionalities depending on the applications. The present experiment includes trials using various substrates, borders, and fluid materials. In this work, 2D microfluidic channels over Canvas sheets and tissue papers have been addressed using a ballpoint pen, marker pen, and correction pen ink to ascertain the suitability of an economical point-of-care device. Investigations revealed that correction pen ink was much easier, quicker, and more reliable than the other ink forms. This was further extended to develop a 3D microfluidic structure over tissue paper using the origami technique. Successful designing of one inlet - four outlet port for the diagnostic purpose was realized. Further, the technique was employed to print the image of an Eiffel tower through stored dry color. These examples highlight paper-based microfluidic devices as a major point-of-care diagnostic tool that can be used to detect biological/chemical changes and be manufactured using simple household stuffs.