Printed two-dimensional micro-zone plates for chemical analysis and ELISA

Abstract

In this study we report a new concept of printing low-cost two-dimensional micro-zone plates for chemical and biochemical assays and ELISA. It is different from the concept of forming multi-zone micro-zones on paper by hydrophobic barriers first reported by Yagoda. Instead, the desired multi-zone micro-zone pattern was first printed using a UV-curable varnish onto a polymer film; then fine powders of cellulose or other materials were applied onto the uncured varnish, allowing the powder to stick to the varnish layer. After UV-curing, the powder particles were fixed by the cured varnish, leading to the formation of porous, water absorbing micro-zones on the polymer film. This type of micro-zo..