Synthesis and application of photo curable perfluoropolyethers as new material for microfluidics

We will describe the use of an alternative polymer which is suitable for use in microfluidic applications which require the use of harsh chemicals or aggressive solvents. Currently microfluidics systems are mainly manufactured in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) due to its ease of use, and the ability to produce monolithic microfluidic valves directly into the same material as the microfluidic chip. However, PDMS has limitations with respect to its chemical stability as it swells in contact with a lot of solvents and tends to become brittle when exposed to substances such as tetradecane. Polymers synthesized from perfluoropolyethers (PFPE) have significant advantages due to their outstanding chemical stability. Furthermore it is possible to photo cure these polymers allowing the convenient structuring of these polymers via lithography. We will demonstrate first experimental result in producing microfluidic components and their application with these polymers.