Abstract

Scaling Up PDMS Microfluidic Chips: Prototyping, Production Challenges, and Transition to Injection Molding

Jing Chen, CEO, HiComp Microtech

This talk covers the spectrum of PDMS microfluidic chip manufacturing, spanning from initial prototyping to mass production and the transition to plastic injection molding. It begins with an exploration of various prototyping methods and their practical applications, followed by an overview of the demand for volume PDMS chip production and its applications in life science. Challenges in scaling up from prototyping to mass production are examined, encompassing mold issues, consistency, and scalability, along with strategies for overcoming these obstacles. Furthermore, the talk delves into emerging trends in PDMS manufacturing and the potential of PDMS injection molding. A detailed case study illustrates a successful transition from PDMS to injection-molded microfluidic chips, showcasing the benefits of enhanced production efficiency and reduced costs.