Three-dimensional-printing for microfluidics or the other way around?

Abstract

As microfluidic devices are designed to tackle more intricate tasks, the architecture of microfluidic devicesbecomes more complex, and more sophisticated fabrication techniques are in demand. Therefore, it is sensible to fabricatemicrofluidic devices by three-dimensional (3D)-printing, which is well-recognized for its unique ability to monolithicallyfabricate complex structures using a near-net-shape additive manufacturing process. Many 3D-printed microfluidic platformshave been demonstrated but can 3D-printed microfluidics meet the demanding requirements in today’s context, and hasmicrofluidics truly benefited from 3D-printing? In contrast to 3D-printed microfluidics, some go the other way around andexploit microfluidics for 3D-printing. Many innovative printing strategies have been made possible with microfluidicsenabled3D-printing, although the limitations are also largely evident. In this perspective article, we take a look at the currentdevelopment in 3D-printed microfluidics and microfluidics-enabled 3D printing with a strong focus on the limitations of thetwo technologies. More importantly, we attempt to identify the innovations required to overcome these limitations and todevelop new high-value applications that would make a scientific and social impact in the future.