Etching to form cross-over, non-intersecting channel networks for use in partitioned microelectronic and fluidic device arrays for clinical diagnostics and chemical synthesis

摘要

A system for processing a plurality of tests or syntheses in parallel comprising a sample channel for moving samples into a microlaboratory array of a plurality of wells connected by one or more channels for the testing-or synthesis of samples, a station for housing the array and an optical system comprising at least one light source and at least one light detector for measuring the samples in the array, and a means of electrically connecting said array to an apparatus capable of monitoring and controlling the flow of fluids into the array. Samples are loaded from a common loading channel into the array, processed in the wells and measurements taken by the optical system. The array can process many samples, or synthesize many compounds in parallel, reducing the time required for such processes. Etching from both sides of a substrate using patterned photoresist and metal layers to form a network of capillary channels for separately transporting a plurality of different liquids. The channels can cross over each other without intersecting.