Technical aspects and challenges of colorimetric detection with microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs) - A review

- An overview on the variables that impact the analysis of colorimetric reactions in μPADs is discussed.
- A critical evaluation of how data-handling methods can affect colorimetric outputs is made.
- General strategies to improve signal-to-noise ratio are suggested.
- Thoughts and insights to improve the use of colorimetric readouts in conjunction with μPADs are presented.

Paper-based devices are a leading alternative among the main analytical tools for point-of-care testing, due to their portability, low-cost, and ease-of-use. Colorimetric readouts are the most common method of detection in these microfluidic devices, enabling qualitative, semi-quantitative and fully quantitative analysis of multiple analytes. There is a multitude of ways to obtain a colorimetric output in such devices, including nanoparticles, dyes, redox and pH indicators, and each has unique drawbacks and benefits. There are also multiple variables that impact the analysis of colorimetric reactions in microfluidic paper-based systems, including color homogeneity, image capture methods, and the data handling itself. Here, we present a critical review of recent developments and challenges of colorimetric detection on microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs), and present thoughts and insights towards future perspectives in the area to improve the use of colorimetric readouts in conjunction with μPADs.

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