When it comes to microfluidics, packing purpose into every micron is a true design challenge. The design of individual features starts with defining their purpose in the overall function of the device. Today we are spotlighting one of these common features: micro pillars.
Micropillar arrays serve a multitude of purpose in the function of microfluidics. They are often used for concentratingbiomolecules such as DNA, RNA and Proteins and for mixing the reagents required to produce these biomolecules. Pillars can even be used as filters to separate and purify a biological solution by restricting the flow of the larger cellular components and debris. Micropillar arrays can also be functionalized (coated) with antibodies to detect the presence of viruses and circulating tumor cells (CTCs). Micropillars utilize large surface to liquid volume ratios to achieve all of these diverse tasks.
Fabricating micropillars is a core competency of the microfabrication team at Potomac Photonics. The biological applications that use micropillars typically require tight dimensional and surface roughness specifications that may only be achievable using specialized microfabrication technologies and tools. Photolithography is one method of producing high precision micropillars at the smallest micro and nano scales, while direct micro-CNC machining provides high quality results at greater dimensions. These technologies can be used directly to produce small quantity prototype devices, or in combination with a high-volume microfabrication technology (such as hot embossing) to deliver larger quantities for device proof of concept and testing.
Animal testing has long been an established protocol in drug discovery programs. But there are systemic issues with the far from reliable methodology. In fact, only 10% of the drugs that move from animal testing to human clinical trials succeeds. Such low yields increase the time and expense required to get pharmaceuticals to market, fueling…
In the field of microfluidics, where precision is key to innovation and application success, our expertise at Potomac Photonics sets a standard. We specialize in the art of laser drilling precise small holes in glass slides and coverslips, a critical capability for the fabrication of microfluidic devices. These devices play a pivotal role in various…
The world today seems consumed with fears about Artificial Intelligence, otherwise known as AI. Writers, journalists, ad copywriters, teachers, and artists are fearful their jobs will be lost to computers but in manufacturing we have been applying a subset of AI to manufacturing for decades with positive results. Like other forms of AI, Machine Learning…