Three-dimensional, paper-based micro fluidic devices containing internal timers for running time-based diagnostic assays

Abstract

This chapter describes a method for fabricating three-dimensional (3D), paper-based micro fluidic devices that contain internal timers for running quantitative, time-based assays. The method involves patterning micro fluidic channels into paper, and cutting double-sided adhesive tape into de fined patterns. Patterned paper and tape are assembled layer by layer to create 3D micro fluidic devices that are capable of distributing microliter volumes of a sample into multiple regions on a device for conducting multiple assays simultaneously. Paraf fin wax is incorporated into de fined regions within the device to provide control over the distribution rate of a sample, and food coloring is included in de fined regions within the device to provide an unambiguous readout when the sample has reached the bottom of the device (this latter feature is the endpoint of the timer) © Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2013.