Instructions for Use (IFU) for Microfluidics

This document provides application-specific instructions for microfluidic manufacturing workflows using 3Dresyns® photopolymer resin systems.

This IFU must be used in conjunction with:

Instructions for Use (IFU)
Any relevant printer-specific IFU
Any relevant application-specific IFU where applicable

This document does not replace the general IFU and applies only to workflows targeting microfluidic devices, channel-containing parts, fluidic prototypes and related analytical or research components.

Scope of application

This IFU applies to:

Microfluidic devices and prototypes
Parts containing internal channels, cavities or fine fluidic features
Research and engineering workflows where dimensional control and clean internal geometry are critical
SLA, DLP, LCD and other relevant photopolymer technologies where the selected material system is suitable

This IFU does not replace:

Device-specific validation for chemical compatibility or fluid contact
Application-specific analytical validation
Material-specific TDS, CRT and structured calibration workflows
Any regulatory or laboratory quality requirements applicable to the final device

Nature of microfluidic workflows

Microfluidic performance is highly sensitive to the full manufacturing chain. Final performance depends on:

Resin formulation and version
Printer resolution and optical behavior
Exposure strategy and overcure control
Layer thickness and feature orientation
Support strategy and channel accessibility
Cleaning, drying and post-curing conditions

Small changes in exposure, washing or post-curing may significantly affect channel opening, dimensional fidelity, transparency, surface roughness and flow behavior.

Critical manufacturing objectives

Preserve open and reproducible internal channels
Minimize unintended overcure and channel obstruction
Control surface quality in wetted or observation areas
Maintain dimensional fidelity in small features
Use cleaning and post-curing conditions that do not compromise fluidic geometry

Printing considerations

Use validated exposure conditions that balance curing completeness and feature preservation.
Overexposure may increase channel closure, reduced channel size or internal obstruction.
Orient parts to support reliable drainage, cleaning access and reduced trapped uncured resin.
Avoid unnecessary supports in zones that may compromise channel access or critical fluidic surfaces.
Where optical observation is required, also consider the relevant transparency workflow.

Cleaning considerations

Cleaning is a critical step for channel-containing parts.
Internal volumes must be cleared of uncured resin using a validated, geometry-appropriate workflow.
Aggressive cleaning or uncontrolled pressure may damage fine structures.
Insufficient cleaning may leave blocked channels, residual resin or inconsistent flow behavior.

Post-curing considerations

Post-curing must be sufficient to stabilize the printed part without causing unacceptable distortion or functional loss in microfeatures.
Thermal and light exposure conditions should follow validated material-specific workflow.
Any change in post-curing conditions requires re-validation of channel fidelity and functional performance.

Validation and quality control

Validate channel opening, dimensional accuracy and repeatability using suitable inspection methods.
Confirm that cleaning and post-curing do not compromise intended channel performance.
Where relevant, validate transparency, pressure resistance, leakage behavior and flow performance under intended use conditions.
Final application-specific validation remains the responsibility of the user.

Interpretation principle

3Dresyns® materials for microfluidics must be understood as professional manufacturing materials for controlled additive manufacturing workflows. Final fluidic performance depends on the implemented process and must be validated by the user for the intended geometry, chemistry and operating conditions.