Abstract

A New Generation of Centrifugal Microfluidics Platforms Using Active Electronic and Pneumatic Controls

Teodor Veres, Section Head, Bioanalytical Micro-Nano Devices, Life Sciences Division, National Research Council of Canada & McGill University

Integration of complex bioanalytical assays in microfluidics is a considerable challenge, requiring not only precise control on fluid displacements but also development of simple and reliable microfluidic devices that are compatible with low-cost mass production. While centrifugal microfluidics is a promising platform for sample-to-answer assays, the traditional fluidic control methods based on capillary and siphon valves have many drawbacks (thigh fabrication tolerances, need for surface treatments, sensitivity to liquid properties, low-reliability, etc.). We have developed new centrifugal microfluidic platforms that offer the interesting prospect to decouple basic microfluidic functions from specific material properties, channels dimensions and fabrication tolerances, surface treatments, or on-chip active components, thus promoting integration of complex assays on simple and low-cost microfluidic cartridges. We present several novel fluidic functions that can be achieved using simple polymer-based chips without on-chip active components by combining centrifugal forces and active pumping. Examples of integrated bioanalytical assays will be discussed including DNA harvesting, pathogenic bacteria sub-typing and circulating makers sample preparation for molecular identification will be presented.