Lab-on-a-chip and other miniaturised analytical instruments

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to provide details of miniaturised analytical instrument technologies and developments. Design/methodology/approach Following an introduction and historical background, this first considers miniaturised chromatographs and spectrometers based on micro-electromechanical system (MEMS)/micro total analytical system technologies. It then discusses lab-on-a-chip developments with an emphasis on capillary electrophoresis. Developments in the emerging lab-on-paper technology are then considered and are followed by brief concluding comments. Findings This shows that many classes of analytical instruments which offer a number of operational and economic benefits have been miniaturised through the use of microfabrication and other technologies. They are an active field of research and are based on silicon, glass, polymers and even paper and are underpinned by developments in microfluidics and optofluidics and fabrication techniques which include lithography, MEMS and micro-opto-electromechanical system. Originality/value This provides an insight into the rapidly developing field of miniaturised analytical instrument technologies.