Microfluidics Droplet-based Reactor
An innovative project integrating droplet-based microfluidics into educational settings, combining precision engineering with practical research applications through cost-effective and accessible lab-on-a-chip technology.
Project Highlights
- •Cost-effective lab-on-a-chip device using photopolymer 3D printing
- •Self-developed peristaltic pump system with Arduino control
- •Digital microscopy integration for detailed monitoring
- •Computer vision analysis for droplet dynamics
Technical Specifications
- •Channel dimensions: 300 micrometers
- •Flow rates: 40-160 ml/min
- •Droplet size range: 50-150 micrometers
- •Channel flow speed: 0.5-2 mm/s
Manufacturing Process
Our manufacturing process utilizes LCD 3D printing technology with an Anycubic Photon 2 printer, providing accuracy up to 50 micrometers in all dimensions. The process includes printing, isopropanol washing, curing, and a 24-hour rest period to ensure optimal PDMS chip quality.
The PDMS casting technique uses a two-component silicone compound "Silagerm 8040", cured at a reduced temperature of 50°C to prevent master deformation. The final assembly includes surface activation and careful installation of inlets and outlets.
Demonstration of the fabrication process for PDMS layers and microstructures
3D models of droplet-based LOCs designed in Fusion360
Planar flow focusing droplet formation diagram
Peristaltic Pump System
Our innovative pump system features four synchronized peristaltic pumps in a custom 3D-printed enclosure. Controlled by Arduino with PWM, the system enables precise flow rate control for both reactant fluids and oil phases, with real-time adjustments possible during experiments.
The total cost per pump unit, including all components, is approximately $48 - less than half the cost of conventional syringe pumps while maintaining reliable performance for droplet generation.
Completed Lab-on-a-chip device
Early prototype of the pump system
Results & Analysis
Using Python and OpenCV, we developed a sophisticated tracking system for analyzing droplet formation and flow dynamics. The system processes high-resolution video feed from our digital microscope, enabling real-time monitoring of droplet size and speed.
Our project successfully demonstrates the feasibility of implementing advanced microfluidics technology in educational settings. The system achieves stable droplet formation with sizes ranging from 50 to 150 micrometers and channel flow speeds of 0.5 to 2 mm/s.
Correlation graph showing Flow Rate with Droplet Speed
Size Distribution in Microfluidic System
Process Demonstration
Droplet Demo
Educational Impact
This project demonstrates how microfluidics technology can be cost-effectively implemented in educational settings. Our approach makes cutting-edge science accessible to students, providing hands-on experience with advanced technology while maintaining high precision and reliability.
The described procedure is accessible, does not require specialized equipment, and can be used or modified further for various purposes. The integration of digital microscopy and computer vision analysis simplifies the quantitative investigation of droplets, making it ideal for educational environments.