3D-printed microfluidic devices could be printed on skin for real-time health monitoring

A collaborative team of researchers from the University of Minnesota (MN, USA) and U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center (MD, USA) has 3D printed micron-scale fluid channels that the team hopes could automate the production of a variety of different medical tests. By printing the fluid channels on a curved surface (pictured), the team claims to have made an initial step towards the eventual 3D printing of fluid systems or microfluidic devices on human skin for the real-time sensing and monitoring of body fluids. The research, outlined in Science Advances, involved the production of microfluidic channels in single...