Small diameter microchannel of PDMS and complex three-dimensional microchannel network

• A lithography-free fabrication method for microchannels in PDMS was demonstrated.
• Channels down to 9 μm-diameter showed round cross-section and smooth inner surface.
• Complex 3D microchannel networks of small microchannels were fabricated successfully.

Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is an important functional material that has been intensively applied in science research, industry, medical devices, plastic surgery, etc. We presented here a new method of fabricating small diameter microchannels in PDMS without using standard cleanroom techniques such as lithography and etching. The as-fabricated microchannels had a round cross-sectional shape, smooth inner surface, and a diameter from 100 μm down to 9 μm. We demonstrated that these microchannels could be applied to construct complicated, three-dimensional (3D) structures of double helix, knots, as well as interconnection along different directions. Together with the merits of PDMS itself, this flexible and versatile technique showed a promising potential for applications in advanced 3D microfluidic devices, and embedded devices in biosystems.

Schematic fabrication procedures for complex 3D micro-channel structures.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide