Fabrication and Characterization of Autonomously Self-Healable and Stretchable Soft Microfluidics

In this paper, a novel self-healable and stretchable microfluidics system for next generation wearable lab-on-a-chip is presented. An imine-based precursor with various metal sources (Co(II), Fe(II), and Zn(II)) is used for the development of an intrinsically autonomous self-healing microfluidic device. Microfluidics fabrication is performed on the self-healing substrate layer using a mold transfer method. The mechanical properties of the resulting layer are evaluated using tensile strain pull testing. Microfluidic characteristics including fluid flow, wettability, leak, and fluorescence compatibility are investigated to understand its performance in classical microfluidic applications. The new microfluidic devices are also characterized using scanning-electron microscopy to evaluate the mold transfer capability. The self-healing microfluidics and the corresponding detailed fluidic characterization presented in this paper will open new opportunities for microfluidic lab on a chip development for various applications, especially in wearable electronics.