Hi everyone
I'm trying to pattern circular cross-section microfluidic channels in PDMS. The template is an optical fiber with an axially non-uniform diameter. To the best of my knowledge, there is not any solvent to selectively remove silica from PDMS. I have found an article axially etched silica fiber by LIBWE method but, it doesn't give me any idea about selectivity if PDMS will be involved. Does anyone have experience with this problem or any suggestions?
Your help is greatly appreciated.
Article Etching of fused silica fiber by metallic laser-induced back...
Hi Hossein,
I know that you might have selected the optical fibers for some good reasons, but I know that many other alternative materials have been used for developing non-uniform cross sections which can be etched away (chemically) easily.
Article Small diameter microchannel of PDMS and complex three-dimens...
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I personally have been able abs (3d printed filament) to form spiral channels and dissolve it in acetone.
Dear Shayan Davani
Thank you for your response. I'm using a fiber fusion splicer to fabricate the template. It applies some restrictions on size and materials that can be used. For this reason and some design considerations, silica fiber is more suitable and most commonly used. However, I will investigate the compatibility of suggested alternative materials with the mold fabrication process and additional process steps that might be needed.
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