Microfluidic device comprising a biodegradable material and method of making such a microfluidic device

A method of making a microfluidic device, the method comprising:

• forming one or more recessed features in a surface of a first preform comprising a biodegradable material to create a patterned surface of the first preform;
• providing an opposing surface of a second preform;
• applying a solvent comprising ethanol to at least one of the patterned surface and the opposing surface;
• after the applying, bringing the patterned surface and the opposing surface into contact;
• and
• bonding the patterned surface of the first preform to the opposing surface of the second preform without employing an adhesive, thereby forming a body including one or more channels extending therethrough for passage of a fluid.

A method of making a microfluidic device, the method comprising:

• forming one or more recessed features in a surface of a first preform comprising a biodegradable material derived from a plant to create a patterned surface of the first preform, the biodegradable material being zein;
• providing an opposing surface of a second preform;
• applying a solvent to at least one of the patterned surface and the opposing surface;
• after the applying, bringing the patterned surface and the opposing surface into contact;
• and
• bonding the patterned surface of the first preform to the opposing surface of the second preform, thereby forming a body including one or more channels extending therethrough for passage of a fluid.