Millimeter-scale contact printing of aqueous solutions using a stamp made out of paper and tape

Chao Min Cheng, Aaron D. Mazzeo, Jinlong Gong, Andres W. Martinez, Scott T. Phillips, Nina Jain, George M. Whitesides

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

52 Scopus citations

Abstract

This communication describes a simple method for printing aqueous solutions with millimeter-scale patterns on a variety of substrates using an easily fabricated, paper-based microfluidic device (a paper-based "stamp") as a contact printing device. The device is made from inexpensive materials, and it is easily assembled by hand; this method is thus accessible to a wide range of laboratories and budgets. A single device was used to print over 2500 spots in less than three minutes at a density of 16 spots per square centimetre. This method provides a new tool to pattern biochemicals - reagents, antigens, proteins, and DNA - on planar substrates. The accuracy of the volume of fluid delivered in simple paper-to-paper printing is low, and although the pattern transfer is rapid, it is better suited for qualitative than accurate, quantitative work. By patterning the paper to which the transfer occurs using wax printing or an equivalent technique, accuracy increases substantially.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)3201-3205
Number of pages5
JournalLab on a Chip
Volume10
Issue number23
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 7 2010

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Bioengineering
  • Biochemistry
  • General Chemistry
  • Biomedical Engineering

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