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Conceptualisation and multi-scale fabrication of new devices and tools for applications in life sciences, so researchers can answer complex biological questions and accelerate their scientific findings – with a special focus on 3D rapid prototyping, microfluidics and micropatterning technologies and their integration with Bioimaging.
The Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) is an additive manufacturing process where a object is generated by the layer by layer deposition of a melted material — in this case a plastic filament.
Masked Stereolithography Apparatus (MLSA) printing uses a high-resolution LCD photomask and an UV LED array to cure thin layers of resin. Individual pixels are deactivated on the LCD to allow the UV LED light to pass through forming an image and the resulting layer.
The cutting plotter can be use for microfluidics prototyping by structuring thin films with a sharp blade – a technique known as xurography. Films can be single or double side adhesive, opaque or transparent, and with smart properties (anti-fog, elastomeric, hidrophilic/hidrophobic, …).
The laser cutter can be used for the creation of customized enclosures, microfluidics assemblies, specialized slides, sample holders or other component housings for experiments. The system can cut or engrave on most organics or non-metal materials such as acrylic, wood and derivatives, glass, paper, etc.
CNC mills are the workhorse of any precision workshop, being used for subtractive manufacturing. These machines can perform operations simple tasks like drilling and face milling to complex operations such as 3D surface milling and thread milling, being suitable for a wide range of materials.
Controlled environment used for the fabrication at micro- and nanoscale, such as microfluidics molds, chips, and micropatterned substrates with 3D nanostructures and molecular coatings. The cleanroom is designed to minimize contamination by dust, particles, and other contaminants that could affect the precision and quality of the microfabrication process. The cleanroom is equipped to perform MSLA 3D Printing, PDMS and xurography-based microfluidics chips assembly and substrate cleaning and micropatterning, including: