Laser direct write techniques for the fabrication of paper-based diagnostic devices

Abstract

We report on the use of laser direct-write techniques for the fabrication of point-of-care paper-based diagnostic sensors. These include laser-based deposition, laser ablation and laser-induced photo-polymerisation.

Firstly, Laser Induced Forward Transfer (LIFT) was employed to deposit biomolecules from a donor film onto paper receivers. Paper was chosen as the ideal receiver because of its inherent properties which make it an efficient and suitable platform for point-of-care diagnostic sensors. Both enzyme-tagged and untagged antibodies were LIFT-printed and their viability was confirmed via a colorimetric enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Secondly, we report on the laser-based structuring of paper-based fluidic devices. Laser-scanning the paper defines the areas that will be polymerised, thus creating barriers that keep the liquid solutions contained. Complicated devices are easy to fabricate and the flexibility of this technique allows for unique patterns, making it appropriate for rapid prototyping but also for large-scale production. Furthermore, the laser patterning technique allows control of the depth or degree of polymerisation, thereby allowing the liquid to wick through but also imposition of flow delays.

Finally, the use of lasers for the fabrication of a 'master' which can be used for casting a PDMS mould for applications in micro-contact printing. The combination of the above mentioned techniques represent the platform technology for the rapid, precise and versatile laser-based fabrication of diagnostic point-of-care sensors.

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Identifiers

ORCID for Ioannis Katis: orcid.org/0000-0002-2016-557X

ORCID for Robert Eason: orcid.org/0000-0001-9704-2204

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