DEVELOPMENT AND MODELING OF AN INNOVATIVE MICROFLUIDIC PAPER-BASED ANALYTICAL DEVICE FOR QUANTITATIVE ELISA

This work contributes to the burgeoning field of paper-based analytical devices, with a particular focus on advancing global health outcomes through the development of an innovative paper-based Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (p-ELISA) platform. At its core, this research seeks to address the critical need for accessible, efficient, and reliable diagnostic tools by leveraging the unique properties of paper as a substrate for fluid dynamics and biochemical reactions. The motivation behind this endeavor is the potential for such devices to significantly improve diagnostic capabilities, especially in resource-limited settings where traditional laboratory infrastructure is scarce. The work is structured around a comprehensive exploration of both theoretical and empirical aspects necessary for the development and optimization of the p-ELISA platform. The initial sections lay the groundwork by introducing current advancements in p-ELISA systems, delineating the research objectives towards creating a platform for efficient biomarker detection. Key components, including the dynamics of fluid flow within paper substrates and the operational principles of Bi-Material Cantilever (B-MaC) actuators, are examined to establish a foundation for the proposed innovations. Further investigation introduces a refined microfluidics platform capable of autonomously conducting ELISA with minimal user intervention. This novel design surpasses previous models by integrating a sophisticated channel network that forms a complete fluidic logic circuit, thereby facilitating ELISA in paper format. The platform’s design has been optimized for fluid wicking times and aligns with global health criteria, highlighting its suitability for a wide range of applications. The research delves into fluid dynamics in Microfluidic Paper-based Analytical Devices (µPADs), employing both empirical experiments and advanced numerical modeling. A new model is proposed to understand fluid behavior under various conditions, contributing to the design and application optimization of µPADs. The study of B-MaC actuators reveals insights into their bending behavior and potential for autonomous actuation in biochemical assays, with a focus on the material dynamics and the actuator’s response to fluid-induced changes. The culmination of this work showcases the integration of µPADs with ELISA, presenting a Lab-on-Paper 3D microfluidic device that represents a significant advancement in diagnostic technology. Capable of both quantitative assessments and qualitative ELISA, this device demonstrates the potential for rapid, reliable diagnostics across a spectrum of applications, from infectious diseases to environmental monitoring and food safety. By offering a scalable, cost-effective solution for disease detection, this thesis contributes significantly to the field of diagnostics, with the potential to enhance global health outcomes through improved accessibility and reliability of