Vol. 24, No. 2 (2025), Mat25518 https://doi.org/10.24275/rmiq/Mat25518

3D printing of microchannels with MSLA technology for microfluidic devices: From design to manufacturing

 

Authors

E.G. Rivera-Medellin, I. Pereyra-Laguna, L.E. Lugo-Uribe, M.A. González-López, J. Mayen-Chaires

Abstract

Microfluidics has gained prominence in recent decades due to its ability to manipulate fluids through micrometric channels and perform analyses comparable to those of a full laboratory. Applications span fields such as chemistry and neuroscience. However, one of the main challenges is the fabrication process, which is often expensive and requires specialized facilities. This study aims to design and fabricate microfluidic devices with microchannels that achieve high concordance between the design and the final product, using a low-cost MSLA 3D printer. Variables such as microchannel width and height, along with printing parameters like exposed layer height and exposure time, were evaluated. The fabricated samples were analyzed using a KEYENCE microscope equipped with a VH-20R RZ x20–x200 lens. A design of experiments was conducted to optimize the variable levels, resulting in ideal printing parameters. The findings demonstrate that this technology enables the fabrication of functional microchannels for microfluidic devices, offering an affordable and efficient alternative to traditional methods. This approach has the potential to broaden access to microfluidic technology.

Keywords

microfluidics, microchannels, MSLA 3D printing, area compliance, design of experiments.

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