甬江实验室苏瑞涛：微流控器件3D打印将逐渐取代软光刻

Core Viewpoint - The advancements in 3D printing technologies, particularly in high-precision methods, are revolutionizing the manufacturing of microfluidic devices, offering new opportunities for standardization and mass production [2][3]. Group 1: 3D Printing Technologies - High-precision 3D printing techniques can create complex structures with feature sizes as small as 100 nanometers [2]. - Recent research highlights the increasing use of 3D printing for microfluidic chip fabrication, which enhances production efficiency and reduces material waste [2][3]. - The integration of 3D printing with microfluidic and micro-sensor arrays is seen as a promising development model for fully 3D printed biochemical sensors [3]. Group 2: Microfluidic Chip Manufacturing - Microfluidic chips, derived from semiconductor micro-nano manufacturing technologies, offer advantages such as low power consumption, high automation, rapid analysis, and small sample volumes [2]. - The transition from soft lithography to 3D printed microfluidic devices is anticipated, with a trend towards "multi-modal printing" that combines various printing methods to optimize manufacturing efficiency and structural resolution [4]. Group 3: Challenges and Future Directions - Despite the advancements, challenges remain in aligning the performance of 3D printed microfluidic devices with traditional soft lithography methods [6]. - The application of high-temperature energy sources like lasers in in-situ printing for automated device manufacturing poses significant challenges [6]. - Ongoing research is focused on developing low-temperature plasma jet technology for 3D printing of functional materials, aiming to enhance the printing process and material interaction [12]. Group 4: Upcoming Forum - Su Ruitao, a researcher at Yongjiang Laboratory, will present on "3D Printing of Functional Materials and Devices" at the 2025 (4th) Polymer 3D Printing Materials Summit Forum, scheduled for July 18-20, 2025, in Hangzhou, Zhejiang [1][6].