Microfluidic channels fabricated using a lithography-free method

A lithography-free microchannel fabrication process with controlled pattern is demonstrated via the combination of Near Field Electrospinning (NFES) and molding of polydimethysiloxane (PDMS). Electrospun polymer fibers (1-10μm in width, 0.5-4μm in height) were patterned onto a silicon substrate to serve as the template. Microfluidic devices with parallel and grid-pattern microchannels were created and tested. By adjusting the electrospinning parameters, control of microchannel size was achieved. This methodology offers an effective, yet simple alternative way to lithography-based techniques for fabricating on-chip fluidic networks in MEMS, IC and biological fields.