3D-Printed Microfluidic Sensor for Fluorescence Measurements

In this work a fluorescent microfluidic sensor is developed, manufactured and characterized through additive manufacturing technique, using transparent photopolymer. A technology widely known as 3D printing is very suitable for tailor-made microfluidic chips, as it allows for rapid manufacturing. Optical structures can be developed using transparent materials, and this work describes a technique for increasing light transmission through such structure. A complete, inexpensive electronic device is described, containing microfluidic chip, light source, photodetector, microcontroller, communication interface and a multifunctional package with embedded connectors. Performed analyses show that performed surface modification significantly improves light transmission through structure, the material does not show autofluorescence, and whole device is suitable for fluorescence measurements.