Open Microfluidic Capillary Systems

Overview

Journal Anal Chem

Specialty Chemistry

Date 2019 Jul 2

PMID 31260266

Citations 34

Authors

Erwin Berthier

Ashley M Dostie

Ulri N Lee

Jean Berthier

Ashleigh B Theberge

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Open microfluidic capillary systems are a rapidly evolving branch of microfluidics where fluids are manipulated by capillary forces in channels lacking physical walls on all sides. Typical channel geometries include grooves, rails, or beams and complex systems with multiple air-liquid interfaces. Removing channel walls allows access for retrieval (fluid sampling) and addition (pipetting reagents or adding objects like tissue scaffolds) at any point in the channel; the entire channel becomes a "device-to-world" interface, whereas such interfaces are limited to device inlets and outlets in traditional closed-channel microfluidics. Open microfluidic capillary systems are simple to fabricate and reliable to operate. Prototyping methods (e.g., 3D printing) and manufacturing methods (e.g., injection molding) can be used seamlessly, accelerating development. This Perspective highlights fundamentals of open microfluidic capillary systems including unique advantages, design considerations, fabrication methods, and analytical considerations for flow; device features that can be combined to create a "toolbox" for fluid manipulation; and applications in biology, diagnostics, chemistry, sensing, and biphasic applications.

Citing Articles

Open Microfluidic Cell Culture in Hydrogels Enabled by 3D-Printed Molds.

OBrien M, Spirrison A, Abdul Halim M, Li Y, Neild A, Gemrich C Bioengineering (Basel). 2025; 12(2).

PMID: 40001622 PMC: 11851523. DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering12020102.

Review on Blood Flow Dynamics in Lab-on-a-Chip Systems: An Engineering Perspective.

Lai B, Zhu L, Chen Z, Ouyang B, Luo Z Chem Bio Eng. 2025; 1(1):26-43.

PMID: 39973974 PMC: 11835182. DOI: 10.1021/cbe.3c00014.

The dynamics of capillary flow in an open-channel system featuring trigger valves.

Tokihiro J, Robertson I, Gregucci D, Shin A, Michelini E, Nicholson T Sci Rep. 2024; 14(1):31732.

PMID: 39738276 PMC: 11686082. DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-82329-3.

Interfacial tension driven open droplet microfluidics.

Khor J, Lee U, Berthier J, Berthier E, Theberge A Adv Mater Interfaces. 2024; 10(7).

PMID: 39584054 PMC: 11583357. DOI: 10.1002/admi.202202234.

Wicking pumps for microfluidics.

Aghajanloo B, Losereewanich W, Pastras C, Inglis D Biomicrofluidics. 2024; 18(6):061501.

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