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process_info_pdms_devices [2021/07/15 18:09] – [Casting Elastomer] magnusonprocess_info_pdms_devices [2021/07/15 21:39] (current) – [Device Bonding] magnuson
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 ==== Mixing Elastomer ==== ==== Mixing Elastomer ====
 **Safety Considerations:** **Safety Considerations:**
-The Thinky Mixer can support a maximum weight of 310 g. Anything heavier than this will cause an eccentric load that can seriously damage the machine.  +  * The Thinky Mixer can support a maximum weight of 310 g. Anything heavier than this will cause an eccentric load that can seriously damage the machine.  
-Confirm that container lid is tightly sealed before loading into the machine. Improperly sealed containers will eject elastomer into the machine and can seriously damage it.+  Confirm that container lid is tightly sealed before loading into the machine. Improperly sealed containers will eject elastomer into the machine and can seriously damage it.
  
 **PPE Required:** **PPE Required:**
-Gloves (Latex or Nitrile) +  * Gloves (Latex or Nitrile) 
-Eye Protection +  Eye Protection 
-Lab Coat+  Lab Coat
  
 **Materials Needed:** **Materials Needed:**
-U-Line jar containing elastomer components (prepared in Preparing Elastomer)+  * U-Line jar containing elastomer components (prepared in Preparing Elastomer)
  
 **Tools Needed:** **Tools Needed:**
-Thinky Mixer +  * Thinky Mixer 
-3D printed Thinky Mixer adapter+  3D printed Thinky Mixer adapter
  
 **Procedure:** **Procedure:**
Line 118: Line 118:
 **Safety Considerations:** **Safety Considerations:**
  
-  Make sure the system lid is secured before starting the spinner.+  Make sure the system lid is secured before starting the spinner.
      
 **PPE Required:** **PPE Required:**
  
-  Gloves (Latex or Nitrile) +  Gloves (Latex or Nitrile) 
-  Eye Protection +  Eye Protection 
-  Lab Coat+  Lab Coat
  
 **Materials Needed:** **Materials Needed:**
  
-  U-Line jar containing mixed and degassed elastomer +  U-Line jar containing mixed and degassed elastomer 
-  Cleaned substrate+  Cleaned substrate
  
 **Tools Needed:** **Tools Needed:**
-  Laurel Spinner +  Laurel Spinner 
-  Substrate vacuum chuck adapter +  Substrate vacuum chuck adapter 
-  Substrate alignment jig+  Substrate alignment jig
  
 **Procedure:** **Procedure:**
Line 218: Line 218:
  
 **Procedure:** **Procedure:**
-Confirm that the oven is set to 80 C. Either oven in the Microfluidics Lab is acceptable.  +  - Confirm that the oven is set to 80 C. Either oven in the Microfluidics Lab is acceptable.  
-Identify an empty oven tray to use for spill protection. +  Identify an empty oven tray to use for spill protection. 
-Carefully transport degassed elastomer to the ovens. +  Carefully transport degassed elastomer to the ovens. 
-Place the part to be cured on the tray. The tray will collect any spilled elastomer and prevent it from burning on the oven source. +  Place the part to be cured on the tray. The tray will collect any spilled elastomer and prevent it from burning on the oven source. 
-Bake for at least 3-4 hours. Overnight is also acceptable.  +  Bake for at least 3-4 hours. Overnight is also acceptable.  
-Leave a note on the oven with your name, contact information, and expected return date/time. Unmarked items are subject to removal from the oven. +  Leave a note on the oven with your name, contact information, and expected return date/time. Unmarked items are subject to removal from the oven. 
-Use the insulated gloves to remove your part from the oven, and let cool on the bench +  Use the insulated gloves to remove your part from the oven, and let cool on the bench 
-Leave the oven on. (This may be subject to change as lab staff investigate the energy consumption of leaving the oven on versus turning the oven on/off).    +  Leave the oven on. (This may be subject to change as lab staff investigate the energy consumption of leaving the oven on versus turning the oven on/off).    
  
 ---- ----
 ==== Ozone Activation ==== ==== Ozone Activation ====
-Safety Considerations: +**Safety Considerations:** 
-Ozone is a toxic molecule, so this process requires proper ventilation. Perform all operations in a fume hood.  +  Ozone is a toxic molecule, so this process requires proper ventilation. Perform all operations in a fume hood.  
-If a fume hood is not available, the scrubber must be attached and used. Leave the scrubber on for a minimum of 10 minutes after usage before opening. +  If a fume hood is not available, the scrubber must be attached and used. Leave the scrubber on for a minimum of 10 minutes after usage before opening. 
-Do not open the lid during operation. If necessary, use a metal implement to push back the rubber seal and confirm that the bulb is functioning. +  Do not open the lid during operation. If necessary, use a metal implement to push back the rubber seal and confirm that the bulb is functioning. 
-The bulb (~$3000) is extremely fragile, and can be broken by overextending the base height. Use the ruler to confirm the top of the sample is at a safe height (below 10 cm) to prevent damage. +  The bulb (~$3000) is extremely fragile, and can be broken by overextending the base height. Use the ruler to confirm the top of the sample is at a safe height (below 10 cm) to prevent damage. 
-This process is only approved for activating PDMS and glass. Check with lab staff before using the equipment for any other purpose.  +  This process is only approved for activating PDMS and glass. Check with lab staff before using the equipment for any other purpose.  
-PPE Required: + 
-Gloves (Latex or Nitrile) +**PPE Required:** 
-Eye Protection +  Gloves (Latex or Nitrile) 
-Lab Coat +  Eye Protection 
-Materials Needed: +  Lab Coat 
-PDMS device (to be bonded) + 
-Glass device backing (to be bonded). Solvent clean glass before exposure (see Solvent Cleaning) +**Materials Needed:** 
-Tools Needed: +  PDMS device (to be bonded) 
-Ozone lamp station +  Glass device backing (to be bonded). Solvent clean glass before exposure (see Solvent Cleaning) 
-Scrubber (if using outside the fume hood) + 
-Special ruler (flag marked at max height of 10 cm) +**Tools Needed:** 
-Procedure: +  Ozone lamp station 
-Open the lid of the ozone machine, place the samples inside. Place the samples such that the bonding surfaces are facing up +  Scrubber (if using outside the fume hood) 
-IMPORTANT: Use the ruler to confirm that the top of the specimen is below 10 cm. Failure to do so will break the bulb (~$3000!) +  Special ruler (flag marked at max height of 10 cm) 
-To raise/lower the stage, hold the stage with one hand and loosen the knob on the right side of the machine. Lift/lower the stage to the new height (It is unsupported and will drop when the knob is loosened), and then tighten the knob to secure it.  + 
-Close the lid, and confirm that the lid clicks into place +**Procedure:** 
-If the lid does not click, use an allen key to adjust the screws underneath the handle. These adjust the springs that control the resistance of the engagement.  +  Open the lid of the ozone machine, place the samples inside. Place the samples such that the bonding surfaces are facing up 
-Press the Clock button to confirm that the timer is set to 10 minutes. Use the Plus and Minus buttons to adjust the time.  +  IMPORTANT: Use the ruler to confirm that the top of the specimen is below 10 cm. Failure to do so will break the bulb (~$3000!) 
-Press On to start the machine. To check that the machine is running, use the metal ruler to slightly depress the rubber gasket and check that light is emanating. IMPORTANT: Do not open the machine during operation.  +     - To raise/lower the stage, hold the stage with one hand and loosen the knob on the right side of the machine. Lift/lower the stage to the new height (It is unsupported and will drop when the knob is loosened), and then tighten the knob to secure it.  
-The machine displays Idle when finished. Remove the samples and close the lid. +  Close the lid, and confirm that the lid clicks into place 
 +     - If the lid does not click, use an allen key to adjust the screws underneath the handle. These adjust the springs that control the resistance of the engagement.  
 +  Press the Clock button to confirm that the timer is set to 10 minutes. Use the Plus and Minus buttons to adjust the time.  
 +  Press On to start the machine. To check that the machine is running, use the metal ruler to slightly depress the rubber gasket and check that light is emanating. IMPORTANT: Do not open the machine during operation.  
 +  The machine displays Idle when finished. Remove the samples and close the lid. 
  
  
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 This process is counterintuitive. Increased exposure time decreases the surface bonding. If  the recipe is not working, try increasing the gas pressure or decreasing the exposure time. This process is counterintuitive. Increased exposure time decreases the surface bonding. If  the recipe is not working, try increasing the gas pressure or decreasing the exposure time.
 This process is sensitive to humidity, and bonding decreases with severe humidity. This process is sensitive to humidity, and bonding decreases with severe humidity.
-Safety Considerations: 
-Do not open the hatch while the machine is in operation. 
-The system is set up to generate plasma from air or nitrogen. Do not use any other gases to generate plasma,  they have additional pump and exhaust requirements. 
-Do not turn the pump off while the chamber is under vacuum. This can pull oil from the pump and damage the system.  
-PPE Required: 
-Gloves (Latex or Nitrile) 
-Eye Protection 
-Lab Coat 
-Materials Needed: 
-PDMS device (cleaned, to be bonded) 
-Glass slide (cleaned, to be bonded) 
-Tools Needed: 
-Plasma cleaning station 
-Procedure: 
-Air Plasma: 
-Place PDMS and glass slide on the foil tray inside the plasma chamber. Ensure that the bonding faces are facing up. 
-Inspect the hatch o-ring for cleanliness. Wipe debris using a clean cloth. 
-Switch the hatch valve to Pump. 
-Confirm that the RF Level dial is turned to Off. 
-Turn the power switch on both units to On. (the left unit should warm up for at least a minute before powering on the plasma) 
-Align the hatch with the chamber opening and hold in place with one hand. 
-Flip the Pump toggle switch to On and hold in place. When the pressure drops below atmospheric (see vacuum gauge on right unit), the hatch will vacuum seal. 
-When the chamber reaches 200 mTorr, slightly open the hatch valve towards Vent until the chamber reads a pressure of 600 mTorr (~⅛ of a turn) 
-The chamber pressure is extremely sensitive to valve position. Adjust slowly and do not let chamber pressure come to atmospheric. 
-After the chamber pressure equilibrates at 600 mTorr, turn the RF Level dial to High. Look through the holes in the left unit casing for a purple glow. The purple glow is a result of the plasma generation. 
- Expose the surfaces for 30 seconds, then turn the RF Level dial to Off. Time this process using an external timer. 
-Hold the hatch in place. With the pump still running, turn the hatch valve to Vent. Let the chamber come to atmospheric pressure, turn the Pump toggle switch to Off. 
-Remove the hatch and return to its storage place. Turn the power switch on both units to Off. 
-Remove activated surfaces. The activation is temporary and will decrease with time. 
  
-Nitrogen Plasma: +**Safety Considerations:** 
-Open the nitrogen valve on the fume hood 1 turn. Set the rotameters on the right plasma unit to 0 flow rate. +  * Do not open the hatch while the machine is in operation. 
-Place PDMS and glass slide on the foil tray inside the plasma chamber. Ensure that the bonding faces are facing up. +  * The system is set up to generate plasma from air or nitrogen. Do not use any other gases to generate plasma,  they have additional pump and exhaust requirements. 
-Inspect the hatch o-ring for cleanliness. Wipe debris using a clean cloth. +  * Do not turn the pump off while the chamber is under vacuum. This can pull oil from the pump and damage the system.  
-Switch the hatch valve to Pump. + 
-Confirm that the RF Level dial is turned to Off. +**PPE Required:** 
-Turn the power switch on both units to On. (The left unit should warm up for at least a minute before powering on the plasma). +  * Gloves (Latex or Nitrile) 
-Align the hatch with the chamber opening and hold in place with one hand. +  * Eye Protection 
-Flip the Pump toggle switch to On and hold in place. WHen the pressure drops below atmospheric (see vacuum gauge on right unit), the hatch will vacuum seal. +  * Lab Coat 
-When the chamber reaches 200 mTorr, slowly bleed nitrogen into the chamber until the chamber pressure reads 1800-2000 mTorr. (use the valve on the left rotameter).  + 
-The chamber pressure is extremely sensitive to valve position, Adjust slowly and do not let chamber pressure come to atmospheric. +**Materials Needed:** 
- After the chamber pressure equilibrates at 1800-2000 mTorr, turn the RF Level dial to High. Look through the holes in the left unit casing for a bright pink glow. This light results from the plasma generation. (The optimal pressure fluctuates, but a strong pink glow is a sign of correct operating conditions). +  * PDMS device (cleaned, to be bonded) 
-Expose the surfaces for 30 seconds, then turn the RF Level dial to Off. Time this process using an external timer. +  * Glass slide (cleaned, to be bonded) 
-Hold the hatch in place. With the pump still running, turn the hatch valve to Vent. Let the chamber come to atmospheric pressure, then turn the Pump toggle switch to Off. +  * Tools Needed: 
-Remove the hatch and return to its storage place. Turn the power switch on both units to off. +  * Plasma cleaning station 
-Adjust the rotameter so that the flow rate is 0. Close the fume hood nitrogen valve. + 
-Remove activated surfaces. The activation is temporary and the effects will decrease with time.+**Procedure:** 
 +===Air Plasma:=== 
 +  - Place PDMS and glass slide on the foil tray inside the plasma chamber. Ensure that the bonding faces are facing up. 
 +  - Inspect the hatch o-ring for cleanliness. Wipe debris using a clean cloth. 
 +  - Switch the hatch valve to Pump. 
 +  - Confirm that the RF Level dial is turned to Off. 
 +  - Turn the power switch on both units to On. (the left unit should warm up for at least a minute before powering on the plasma) 
 +  - Align the hatch with the chamber opening and hold in place with one hand. 
 +  - Flip the Pump toggle switch to On and hold in place. When the pressure drops below atmospheric (see vacuum gauge on right unit), the hatch will vacuum seal. 
 +  - When the chamber reaches 200 mTorr, slightly open the hatch valve towards Vent until the chamber reads a pressure of 600 mTorr (~⅛ of a turn) 
 +     - The chamber pressure is extremely sensitive to valve position. Adjust slowly and do not let chamber pressure come to atmospheric. 
 +  - After the chamber pressure equilibrates at 600 mTorr, turn the RF Level dial to High. Look through the holes in the left unit casing for a purple glow. The purple glow is a result of the plasma generation. 
 +  - Expose the surfaces for 30 seconds, then turn the RF Level dial to Off. Time this process using an external timer. 
 +  - Hold the hatch in place. With the pump still running, turn the hatch valve to Vent. Let the chamber come to atmospheric pressure, turn the Pump toggle switch to Off. 
 +  - Remove the hatch and return to its storage place. Turn the power switch on both units to Off. 
 +  - Remove activated surfaces. The activation is temporary and will decrease with time. 
 + 
 +===Nitrogen Plasma:=== 
 +  Open the nitrogen valve on the fume hood 1 turn. Set the rotameters on the right plasma unit to 0 flow rate. 
 +  Place PDMS and glass slide on the foil tray inside the plasma chamber. Ensure that the bonding faces are facing up. 
 +  Inspect the hatch o-ring for cleanliness. Wipe debris using a clean cloth. 
 +  Switch the hatch valve to Pump. 
 +  Confirm that the RF Level dial is turned to Off. 
 +  Turn the power switch on both units to On. (The left unit should warm up for at least a minute before powering on the plasma). 
 +  Align the hatch with the chamber opening and hold in place with one hand. 
 +  Flip the Pump toggle switch to On and hold in place. WHen the pressure drops below atmospheric (see vacuum gauge on right unit), the hatch will vacuum seal. 
 +  When the chamber reaches 200 mTorr, slowly bleed nitrogen into the chamber until the chamber pressure reads 1800-2000 mTorr. (use the valve on the left rotameter).  
 +     - The chamber pressure is extremely sensitive to valve position, Adjust slowly and do not let chamber pressure come to atmospheric. 
 +  After the chamber pressure equilibrates at 1800-2000 mTorr, turn the RF Level dial to High. Look through the holes in the left unit casing for a bright pink glow. This light results from the plasma generation. (The optimal pressure fluctuates, but a strong pink glow is a sign of correct operating conditions). 
 +  Expose the surfaces for 30 seconds, then turn the RF Level dial to Off. Time this process using an external timer. 
 +  Hold the hatch in place. With the pump still running, turn the hatch valve to Vent. Let the chamber come to atmospheric pressure, then turn the Pump toggle switch to Off. 
 +  Remove the hatch and return to its storage place. Turn the power switch on both units to off. 
 +  Adjust the rotameter so that the flow rate is 0. Close the fume hood nitrogen valve. 
 +  Remove activated surfaces. The activation is temporary and the effects will decrease with time.
  
  
 ---- ----
 ==== Corona Activation ==== ==== Corona Activation ====
-Safety Considerations: +**Safety Considerations:** 
-The corona discharge wand ionizes the surrounding air, producing molecules like ozone. Open the closest fume hood sash to promote air flow during use. +  The corona discharge wand ionizes the surrounding air, producing molecules like ozone. Open the closest fume hood sash to promote air flow during use. 
-If using the wand for more than 10 minutes of operation, perform all work inside a fume hood to prevent excess accumulation of ionized byproducts. +  If using the wand for more than 10 minutes of operation, perform all work inside a fume hood to prevent excess accumulation of ionized byproducts. 
-The wand presents a shocking hazard. Keep hands away during operation.+  The wand presents a shocking hazard. Keep hands away during operation.
 Metal tools are forbidden when using the corona discharge wand. Use plastic tweezers and other implements. Metal tools are forbidden when using the corona discharge wand. Use plastic tweezers and other implements.
-PPE Required: + 
-Nitrile gloves, not latex, must be worn. +**PPE Required:** 
-Materials Needed: +  Nitrile gloves, not latex, must be worn. 
-PDMS device (to be bonded) + 
-Glass slide (to be bonded) +**Materials Needed:** 
-Scrap PDMS - for dialing in wand settings +  PDMS device (to be bonded) 
-Tools Needed: +  Glass slide (to be bonded) 
-Corona discharge wand +  Scrap PDMS - for dialing in wand settings 
-Plastic tweezers / handling implements (no metal) + 
-Plastic or insulated work surface +**Tools Needed:** 
-Procedure: +  Corona discharge wand 
-Prepare the workspace. Remove metal implements and other shocking hazards +  Plastic tweezers / handling implements (no metal) 
-Lay out samples. Confirm that the bonding faces are facing upwards. +  Plastic or insulated work surface 
-Plug in the corona discharge wand.  + 
-Hold the wand over the piece of scrap PDMS. Position the wand between ⅛” and ¼” away from the surface of the material. +**Procedure:** 
-Turn on the wand and increase the distance between the wand and surface until there is minimal sparking. +  Prepare the workspace. Remove metal implements and other shocking hazards 
 +  Lay out samples. Confirm that the bonding faces are facing upwards. 
 +  Plug in the corona discharge wand.  
 +  Hold the wand over the piece of scrap PDMS. Position the wand between ⅛” and ¼” away from the surface of the material. 
 +  Turn on the wand and increase the distance between the wand and surface until there is minimal sparking. 
  
 ---- ----
 ==== Silane Deposition ==== ==== Silane Deposition ====
-Safety Considerations: +**Safety Considerations:** 
-Trimethylsilyl chloride is an extremely reactive compound that forms HCl upon contact with water, including water vapor in the air.  +  Trimethylsilyl chloride is an extremely reactive compound that forms HCl upon contact with water, including water vapor in the air.  
-This process can only be performed in a fume hood, and the process requires an inert nitrogen environment. Do not raise the fume hood sash above recommended levels. +  This process can only be performed in a fume hood, and the process requires an inert nitrogen environment. Do not raise the fume hood sash above recommended levels. 
-The system should be supervised at all times. If leaving the lab while in use, leave a note with your name, contact information, and your return time.  +  The system should be supervised at all times. If leaving the lab while in use, leave a note with your name, contact information, and your return time. 
-PPE Required: +  
-Gloves (Latex or Nitrile) +**PPE Required:** 
-Eye Protection +  Gloves (Latex or Nitrile) 
-Lab Coat +  Eye Protection 
-All work must be completed inside the fume hood. TMSC is extremely toxic. +  Lab Coat 
-Materials Needed: +  All work must be completed inside the fume hood. TMSC is extremely toxic. 
-Substrate + 
-Tools Needed: +**Materials Needed:** 
-Tweezers  +  Substrate 
-Silane Deposition Rig + 
-Vacuum Pump +**Tools Needed:** 
-Procedure: +  Tweezers  
-Make sure the vacuum pump is turned on. Open the nitrogen valve 2-3 turns. Set gas Selector Valve to Off. +  Silane Deposition Rig 
-Remove the acrylic lid from the silane deposition rig. Carefully place item to be silanated inside the chamber using tweezers. Position item away from the silane nozzle. +  Vacuum Pump 
-Inspect the O-ring for any dirt or obstructions. This will compromise the seal. + 
-Replace the acrylic lid on the rig. Confirm that the item being silanated is not underneath the silane nozzle. +**Procedure:** 
-Switch the Selector Valve to Vacuum.  +  Make sure the vacuum pump is turned on. Open the nitrogen valve 2-3 turns. Set gas Selector Valve to Off. 
-When the pressure gauge reaches - 20 in Hg, switch the Selector Valve to Off. Note the exact reading of the pressure gauge.  +  Remove the acrylic lid from the silane deposition rig. Carefully place item to be silanated inside the chamber using tweezers. Position item away from the silane nozzle. 
-Wait 2 minutes, and inspect the pressure gauge again. Confirm that the pressure has not changed. A change in pressure indicates an imperfect seal. Clean the O-ring and test again. +  Inspect the O-ring for any dirt or obstructions. This will compromise the seal. 
-Open the Isolation Valve. The Silane Valve must remain closed. +  Replace the acrylic lid on the rig. Confirm that the item being silanated is not underneath the silane nozzle. 
-Slowly turn the Selector Valve to Nitrogen. (Opening the valve too quickly will cause an influx of gas and blow small parts around the chamber). +  Switch the Selector Valve to Vacuum.  
-When the pressure reaches - 3 in Hg, turn the Selector Valve to Vacuum. +  When the pressure gauge reaches - 20 in Hg, switch the Selector Valve to Off. Note the exact reading of the pressure gauge.  
-When the pressure reaches -25 in Hg, turn the Selector Valve to Nitrogen. +  Wait 2 minutes, and inspect the pressure gauge again. Confirm that the pressure has not changed.   - A change in pressure indicates an imperfect seal. Clean the O-ring and test again. 
-Repeat Steps 11 and 12 four times. When the pressure reaches -3 in Hg on the last run, turn the Selector Valve to Off. +  Open the Isolation Valve. The Silane Valve must remain closed. 
-Turn the Selector Valve to Vacuum. +  Slowly turn the Selector Valve to Nitrogen. (Opening the valve too quickly will cause an influx of gas and blow small parts around the chamber). 
-Just before the internal pressure reaches - 15 in Hg, open the Silane Valve. Turn the Selector Valve to Off when the internal pressure reaches - 15 in Hg. +  When the pressure reaches - 3 in Hg, turn the Selector Valve to Vacuum. 
-Let the system run for 30-60 minutes. Record start/end times in the log for tracking TMSC consumption. +  When the pressure reaches -25 in Hg, turn the Selector Valve to Nitrogen. 
-Close the Silane Valve.  +  Repeat Steps 11 and 12 four times. When the pressure reaches -3 in Hg on the last run, turn the Selector Valve to Off. 
-Turn the Selector Valve to Vacuum. +  Turn the Selector Valve to Vacuum. 
-When the pressure reaches -25 in Hg, turn the Selector Valve to Nitrogen. +  Just before the internal pressure reaches - 15 in Hg, open the Silane Valve. Turn the Selector Valve to Off when the internal pressure reaches - 15 in Hg. 
-Repeat Steps 17 and 18 four times, switching the Selector Valve to Vacuum when the pressure reaches - 3 in Hg. +  Let the system run for 30-60 minutes. Record start/end times in the log for tracking TMSC consumption. 
-While still at negative pressure, close the Isolation Valve. +  Close the Silane Valve.  
-With the Selector Valve set to Nitrogen, let the system come to positive pressure. +  Turn the Selector Valve to Vacuum. 
-When the seal breaks, turn the Selector Valve to Off.  +  When the pressure reaches -25 in Hg, turn the Selector Valve to Nitrogen. 
-Using carefully remove the part. Reseat the acrylic lid on the rig. +  Repeat Steps 17 and 18 four times, switching the Selector Valve to Vacuum when the pressure reaches - 3 in Hg. 
-Turn off the vacuum pump and close the nitrogen line.+  While still at negative pressure, close the Isolation Valve. 
 +  With the Selector Valve set to Nitrogen, let the system come to positive pressure. 
 +  When the seal breaks, turn the Selector Valve to Off.  
 +  Using carefully remove the part. Reseat the acrylic lid on the rig. 
 +  Turn off the vacuum pump and close the nitrogen line.
  
 ---- ----
 ==== Solvent Cleaning ==== ==== Solvent Cleaning ====
-Safety Considerations: +**Safety Considerations:** 
-Isopropyl Alcohol and Acetone are both flammable materials and cannot be placed directly in the sonicator bath. They must be contained within a separate vessel placed inside the bath. +  Isopropyl Alcohol and Acetone are both flammable materials and cannot be placed directly in the sonicator bath. They must be contained within a separate vessel placed inside the bath. 
-Large chemical spills are a possibility. Pour all chemicals inside the fume hood.  +  Large chemical spills are a possibility. Pour all chemicals inside the fume hood.  
-Keep fume hood sash at or below maximum opening level to ensure adequate air flow+  Keep fume hood sash at or below maximum opening level to ensure adequate air flow.
-PPE Required: +
-Gloves (Latex or Nitrile) +
-Eye Protection +
-Lab Coat +
-Materials Needed: +
-Polypropylene (PP) bags +
-Acetone +
-Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) +
-Tools Needed: +
-Sonicator Bath (Filled with DI Water) +
-Beakers (if not using PP bags) +
-Tweezers +
-Plastic boards with beaker shaped cutouts (if using beakers) +
-Rail with PP bag clips +
-Procedure: +
-Beakers +
-Remove the metal lid of the sonicator bath. Check that the bath is filled to the operating level (if not, fill to the line with DI). +
-Place the plastic cutouts across the bath, resting it on the ledges that seat the lid. One cutout has 2 openings, the other has only 1. +
-Retrieve the appropriate beakers from the drying rack above the sink in the microfluidics lab. Select the beakers labeled Acetone, IPA, and DI Water. Confirm that each beaker has a plastic tube / zip tie ring around it to act as a cushion. +
-Fill each beaker with the corresponding chemical using the solvent bottles in the cabinet underneath the fume hood. +
-Carefully seat each beaker in one of the cutouts. Confirm that the base of the container rests below the water level. +
-Using tweezers, Place the parts in the IPA beaker first. Sonicate for 5 minutes. +
-Transfer the parts to the Acetone beaker. Sonicate for 5 additional minutes. +
-Transfer the parts to the DI Water beaker. Sonicate for 5 additional minutes.  +
-Remove parts and dry with compressed air. Place into clean travel case and close lid to reduce contamination. +
-Discard solvent in the solvent waste bottle found in the cabinet underneath the fume hood. Pour chemicals inside the fume hood and use the funnel (found next to the waste bottle) to minimize spills. +
-Rinse beakers with DI water hang on the drying rack. +
-Return the plastic cutouts to their storage place.  +
-If needed, replenish the DI water in the sonicator bath to the fill line.  +
-Replace the bath lid.+
  
-Polypropylene (PP) Bags +**PPE Required:** 
-Remove the metal lid of the sonicator bath. Check that the bath is filled to the operating level (if not, fill to the line with DI). +  * Gloves (Latex or Nitrile) 
-Retrieve 3 PP bags from the blue container adjacent to the sonicator. Using a sharpie, label the bags Acetone, IPA, and DI Water.  +  * Eye Protection 
-Using compressed air, gently pressurize the bags before releasing the pressure. This will break the static adhesion of the inside layers. Failure to do so may cause the solvents to overflow during filling.  +  * Lab Coat 
-Fill each bag halfway with the corresponding solvent. Carefully pour the solvents to avoid spills, use the provided rack to keep the bag upright. + 
-Using tweezers, place the parts inside the IPA bag. Seal the bag and clip the filled bag to the rail. +**Materials Needed:** 
-Hang the rail across the sonicator bath, resting it on the ledges that seat the lid.  +  * Polypropylene (PP) bags 
-Sonicate the part in the IPA bag for 5 minutes. +  * Acetone 
-Unclip the IPA bag from the rail, transfer the part to the Acetone bag, and seal. Clip the filled bag to the rail. +  * Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) 
-Sonicate the part in the Acetone bag for 5 minutes. + 
-Unclip the Acetone bag from the rail, transfer the part to the DI Water bag, and seal. Clip the filled bag to the rail.  +**Tools Needed:** 
-Sonicate the part in the DI Water bag for 5 minutes. +  * Sonicator Bath (Filled with DI Water) 
-Unclip the DI Water bag from the rail. Remove the parts, blow dry with compressed air, and place in a clean transport case. +  * Beakers (if not using PP bags) 
-Dispose of remaining solvents into the solvent waste jug (found in the cabinet underneath the fume hood). Pour all chemicals inside the fume hood and use the provided funnel to minimize spills. +  * Tweezers 
-Discard empty bags in the trash. Return clip rail to its storage position. +  * Plastic boards with beaker shaped cutouts (if using beakers) 
-If needed, replenish the DI water in the sonicator bath to the fill line. +  * Rail with PP bag clips 
-Replace the bath lid.+ 
 +**Procedures:** 
 + 
 +===Beakers=== 
 +  - Remove the metal lid of the sonicator bath. Check that the bath is filled to the operating level (if not, fill to the line with DI). 
 +  - Place the plastic cutouts across the bath, resting it on the ledges that seat the lid. One cutout has 2 openings, the other has only 1. 
 +  - Retrieve the appropriate beakers from the drying rack above the sink in the microfluidics lab.   - Select the beakers labeled Acetone, IPA, and DI Water. Confirm that each beaker has a plastic tube / zip tie ring around it to act as a cushion. 
 +  - Fill each beaker with the corresponding chemical using the solvent bottles in the cabinet underneath the fume hood. 
 +  - Carefully seat each beaker in one of the cutouts. Confirm that the base of the container rests below the water level. 
 +  - Using tweezers, Place the parts in the IPA beaker first. Sonicate for 5 minutes. 
 +  - Transfer the parts to the Acetone beaker. Sonicate for 5 additional minutes. 
 +  - Transfer the parts to the DI Water beaker. Sonicate for 5 additional minutes.  
 +  - Remove parts and dry with compressed air. Place into clean travel case and close lid to reduce contamination. 
 +  - Discard solvent in the solvent waste bottle found in the cabinet underneath the fume hood. Pour chemicals inside the fume hood and use the funnel (found next to the waste bottle) to minimize spills. 
 +  - Rinse beakers with DI water hang on the drying rack. 
 +  - Return the plastic cutouts to their storage place.  
 +  - If needed, replenish the DI water in the sonicator bath to the fill line.  
 +  - Replace the bath lid. 
 + 
 +===Polypropylene (PP) Bags=== 
 +  Remove the metal lid of the sonicator bath. Check that the bath is filled to the operating level (if not, fill to the line with DI). 
 +  Retrieve 3 PP bags from the blue container adjacent to the sonicator. Using a sharpie, label the bags Acetone, IPA, and DI Water.  
 +  Using compressed air, gently pressurize the bags before releasing the pressure. This will break the static adhesion of the inside layers. Failure to do so may cause the solvents to overflow during filling.  
 +  Fill each bag halfway with the corresponding solvent. Carefully pour the solvents to avoid spills, use the provided rack to keep the bag upright. 
 +  Using tweezers, place the parts inside the IPA bag. Seal the bag and clip the filled bag to the rail. 
 +  Hang the rail across the sonicator bath, resting it on the ledges that seat the lid.  
 +  Sonicate the part in the IPA bag for 5 minutes. 
 +  Unclip the IPA bag from the rail, transfer the part to the Acetone bag, and seal. Clip the filled bag to the rail. 
 +  Sonicate the part in the Acetone bag for 5 minutes. 
 +  Unclip the Acetone bag from the rail, transfer the part to the DI Water bag, and seal. Clip the filled bag to the rail.  
 +  Sonicate the part in the DI Water bag for 5 minutes. 
 +  Unclip the DI Water bag from the rail. Remove the parts, blow dry with compressed air, and place in a clean transport case. 
 +  Dispose of remaining solvents into the solvent waste jug (found in the cabinet underneath the fume hood). Pour all chemicals inside the fume hood and use the provided funnel to minimize spills. 
 +  Discard empty bags in the trash. Return clip rail to its storage position. 
 +  If needed, replenish the DI water in the sonicator bath to the fill line. 
 +  Replace the bath lid.
  
 ---- ----
 ==== Device Bonding ==== ==== Device Bonding ====
-Safety Considerations: +**Safety Considerations:** 
-The oven poses a burn hazard. Use protective gloves when handling. +  The oven poses a burn hazard. Use protective gloves when handling. 
-PPE Required: + 
-Insulated gloves. +**PPE Required:** 
-Gloves (Latex or Nitrile) +  Insulated gloves. 
-Eye Protection +  Gloves (Latex or Nitrile) 
-Lab Coat +  Eye Protection 
-Materials Needed: +  Lab Coat 
-Activated PDMS surface (for bonding) + 
-Activated glass surface (for bonding) +**Materials Needed:** 
-Aluminum foil +  Activated PDMS surface (for bonding) 
-Tools Needed: +  Activated glass surface (for bonding) 
-Oven  +  Aluminum foil 
-Tweezers + 
-Procedure: +**Tools Needed:** 
-The hydrophilicity of activated surfaces decreases rapidly with time. Perform this procedure immediately after surface activation. Use clean implements. Any dirt or contamination will negatively impact the device bonding. +  Oven  
-Using clean tweezers, carefully pick up the two pieces to be activated. Bring the activated surfaces in contact with each other. +  Tweezers 
-Work from one corner of the device to the other, gently pressing the surface to eliminate bubbles. + 
-Create a tray from aluminum foil, and place the device on it. This will facilitate baking the device. +**Procedure:** 
-Bake the joined device at 120 C for 20 minutes. This will create a permanent bond between the glass and the PDMS. (A drip tray is not necessary) +  The hydrophilicity of activated surfaces decreases rapidly with time. Perform this procedure immediately after surface activation. Use clean implements. Any dirt or contamination will negatively impact the device bonding. 
-Remove the device and let cool.+  Using clean tweezers, carefully pick up the two pieces to be activated. Bring the activated surfaces in contact with each other. 
 +  Work from one corner of the device to the other, gently pressing the surface to eliminate bubbles. 
 +  Create a tray from aluminum foil, and place the device on it. This will facilitate baking the device. 
 +  Bake the joined device at 120 C for 20 minutes. This will create a permanent bond between the glass and the PDMS. (A drip tray is not necessary) 
 +  Remove the device and let cool.
  
 ==== Port Alignment Fixture ==== ==== Port Alignment Fixture ====
  
process_info_pdms_devices.1626372579.txt.gz · Last modified: 2021/07/15 18:09 by magnuson