Simple Reagent Storage in Polyester-Paper Hybrid Microdevices for Colorimetric Detection

• NCJ Number: 252282
• Journal: Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical Volume: 246 Dated: July 2017 Pages: 740-747
• Author(s): Shannon T. Krauss; Victoria C. Holt; James P. Landers
• Date Published: July 2017
• Length: 8 pages
• Grant Number(s): 2015-R2-CX-0033
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical); Report (Study/Research); Report (Grant Sponsored); Program/Project Description

Annotation

This article describes the development of polyester-paper hybrid microfluidic devices that use a fabrication method, compounded from the print, cut, and laminate (PCL) technique, which allows for simple yet effective dry reagent storage for improved use with centrifugal or polymeric-based devices.

Abstract

A challenge in developing microfluidic devices for fully portable and automated field analyses is the ability to integrate and store reagents in a stable form while maintaining a low cost for the system. Paper-based field-deployable devices are currently the most extensively explored platforms for field use; however, centrifugal devices offer a means for heightened device automation and portability. The basis for many field devices is chemical sensing via colorimetric reactions. The current project used various proof-of-principle colorimetric assays for multiple applications, including the analysis of total protein, serum albumin, cocaine, 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), and iron content. Localized reagent integration facilitated by paper punches allowed for both reagent stability prior to reaction for storage, color stability post-reaction for image analysis, and was compatible for multi-step analyses. Qualitative and quantitative results were achieved with the broad range of sample applications trialed here, while still maintaining the ability for downstream processing. (Publisher abstract modified)