Flexdym, an Alternative to PDMS
Flexdym is the first material specifically engineered for microfluidic chips. It is flexible, easily moldable, bondable, transparent, biocompatible, and resistant to the adsorption of small molecules. Flexdym is suitable for every stage of development, from prototyping to large-scale production.
From Micro to Nano-Sized Structures
DEVICE REPLICATION
Flexdym microfluidic chips are molded and replicated via hot embossing, which allows the replication of structures at higher levels of accuracy and precision than soft lithography.
Flexdym Values
The Flexdym material embodies specific core values critical for advanced microfluidics: its inherent Biocompatibility, exceptional Versatility in Fabrication, and remarkable Scalability. These intrinsic properties are fundamental to its innovative application.
- Biocompatibility: Flexdym is certified as biocompatible (ISO 10993 parts 4, 5, 6, 10 & 11 and USP Class VI), making it highly suitable for diagnostic and cell study devices.
- Versatility in Fabrication: It is a flexible material that can be easily molded and bonded, offering significant advantages in the creation and assembly of microfluidic chips.
- Scalability: Flexdym supports production across various scales, from rapid prototyping to mass production, providing utility for different stages of development and manufacturing.
Specifically, we have conducted gas permeability tests for 2 mm of Flexdym at 23°C, 50% RH. Subsequently, these results, combined with those of other Flexdym users, show a range of 40 to 70-fold lower gas permeability for Flexdym compared to PDMS. Nevertheless, cell culture remains a top application of Flexdym. For instance, for published results, contact us.
Much like PDMS and other thermoplastic materials used in microfluidic device fabrication, Flexdym™ is resistant to commonly used solvents such as acids and bases, as well as methanol/ethanol. Furthermore, it is resistant to fluorinated oils, commonly used in droplet-based microfluidic applications. However, like these other materials, results show it swells in the presence of carboxylic acid and other oils. Indeed, it may be important to note, it is not resistant to hydrocarbons. To that end, to find out more about Flexdym material chemistry, read our news article.
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Flexdym Starter Pack
Primarily, the starter pack is the perfect format for first-time Flexdym users to test the material for their application. Moreover, within one starter pack, different thicknesses can be mixed, making the selection process easier for you.
Flexdym Rolls
Following initial testing, the Flexdym Rolls offer a more cost-effective format for users. Furthermore, they are compatible with roll-to-roll embossing methods for mass production.
Flexdym Pellets
For experienced users, the Flexdym Pellets are ideal for those who have developed a marketable product using this technology. Subsequently, they are suitable for beginning mass production or 3D printing with our Flexdym pellets.
Easy Steps for Flexdym Microfluidic Chips
Cut it
First, cut a protected Flexdym sheet using your preferred method, immediately rendering the material usable without further preparation.
Press it
Next, remove protective films and apply heat and pressure to the Flexdym sheet between molds.
Punch Inlets
Following molding, protect the Flexdym sheet and create inlet/outlet ports.
Place it
Finally, remove the protective sheet and assemble the Flexdym with your chosen substrate, leveraging its conformability for optimal contact.
Flexdym Microfluidic Chips Replication
The Flexdym material embodies specific core values critical for advanced microfluidics: its inherent Biocompatibility, exceptional Versatility in Fabrication, and remarkable Scalability. These intrinsic properties are fundamental to its innovative application.
Sublym Machine
- Optimized for Flexdym molding in only 1-2 minutes!
- Compact & User-friendly design that requires little to no training.
- Dramatically cheaper than most standard clean room equipment. This small investment is an opportunity for you to begin exploring microfluidics.
Classic Hot Press
- Not optimized for Flexdym molding, therefore longer molding time.
- Less easy-to-use alternative for the Sublym.
- Slightly more expensive than the Sublym100, but a standard piece of equipment which is generally installed in fabrication facilities.
Flexdym Pricing
Eden Tech has optimized Flexdym’s pricing to be comparable to other widely used materials in microfluidics, with added advantages:
- Biocompatible
- Transparent
- Scalable
- User-Friendly
