In order to solve analytical problems in settings that lack analytical resources and infrastructure, we are designing paper-based millifluidic systems that can accomplish complex analytical tasks yet need no instruments, added chemicals, electrical power, or trained operators.  Each device contains 10-50 reaction areas and lanes pre-loaded with all the reagents needed to carry out complex analytical functions, such as titrations with ppm or ppb limits of detection, or libraries of color tests.  The paper devices are made using wax printing and a solution deposition robot.  Fluids are passively pumped through the devices by capillary action. Reagents such as nitrous acid or iodine, which are not stable on paper, can be entrained in stabilizing polymer films or stored as precursors that combine during device operation.  Timer lanes, standards, and user compliance indicators can be incorporated, as well as fiducial marks and color standards to facilitate processing and analysis by image recognition software.  Either solid or liquid samples can be analyzed.  These paper test devices are being used in field tests in Kenya and Iraq to detect low-quality pharmaceuticals, and in Haiti and India to monitor ppm levels of iodizing agents in salt.

Paper millifluidic devices: New tools for chemical analysis in low resource settings

246th National Meeting (2013)

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