Developing Diagnostic Products Using Polymer Laminate Technology

In the development of newer molecular and immunodiagnostic products, panels of tests are launched on a single platform. To accomplish this, complex fluid circuits that perform sample preparation and sample distribution interface with other functional elements. When a device incorporates microfabricated components that are injection molded or embossed, changes in the design to optimize performance are carefully considered because of the expense in retooling. To avoid these costs, modifications are made reluctantly, and other work-arounds may be proposed. While such fixes lower the short-term development costs, the end result may be a merely adequate, not superior, product.