Microfluidic systems on a printed wiring board platform

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the development of printed wiring board (PWB)‐based microfluidic building blocks and their integration into systems for DNA amplification and electronic detection.

Design/methodology/approach

Technologies from embedded passives (EP) and photolithographic high‐density interconnect are integrated into a traditional PWB platform to enable multifunctional electrochemical sensors for on‐chip detection of biological assays.

Findings

PWB materials and processes can be applied to develop microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) and microfluidic systems. On‐chip heaters using EP have been demonstrated with excellent accuracy. The on‐chip heaters can be used for localized temperature control as well as heat air pumps. The integration of EP and microchannels is a promising approach to add functionalities to the PWB‐based microsystems.

Research limitations/implications

Further integration of microchannels with the embedded heaters and electrochemical sensors will increase the compactness, functionality, and value of the PWB‐based microfluidic systems.

Originality/value

The paper describes the development and integration of PWB‐based building‐blocks such as EP and microchannels for MEMS and microfluidic applications. These elements will enable new applications and enhanced functionalities of PWB.

Citation

Lian, K., O'Rourke, S., Sadler, D., Gamboa, C., Terbrueggen, R. and Chason, M. (2009), "Microfluidic systems on a printed wiring board platform", Circuit World, Vol. 35 No. 3, pp. 12-20. https://doi.org/10.1108/03056120910979503