Microfluidic 3D cell culture platform using capillary burst valve (CBV) hydrogel patterning technique

• Main Author: Tan, Xin Yi
• Other Authors: Hou Han Wei
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2019
• Subjects: DRNTU::Engineering::Mechanical engineering::Fluid mechanics
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/77309
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

High throughput microfluidic devices serve many purposes, such as drug screening, due to its ability to process a larger quantity of samples in a single experimental run. The conventional production methods of the moulds of these devices are, however, labour intensive and time-consuming. To improve the efficiency of mould production, 3D printing of these moulds is explored by varying the feature geometry of the moulds and analysing the resultant prints through microscopy. Moreover, a different method of loading hydrogels is explored, which reduces the loading time and inconsistencies of conventional loading methods. 3D printing of the moulds is feasible, given the successful loadings of the collagen gel for designed extracellular matrix heights of 200μm to 900μm for circular array features of 3mm. Loading of gel into array features of diameters of 3mm, 4mm and 5mm, various shapes and edge distances of 0.5mm to 3.0mm were also demonstrated.