Mathematical Modelling and Simulation Research of Thermal Engraving Technology Based on PMMA Material

We proposed a thermal engraving technology based on heat transfer theory and polymer rheology in microfluidic field. Then, we established a 3D model of the thermal engraving process based on polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) material. We could employ the model to analyze the influence of temperature and speed on microchannel processing through the finite element simulation. Thus, we gained the optimal processing parameters. The orthogonal experiments were carried out within the parameter ranges obtained by the simulation results. Finally, we fabricated the smooth microchannel, the average roughness of which was 0.3 μm, by using the optimal parameters. Furthermore, we examined the surface morphology and wettability. Our work provides a convenient technological support for a fast, low-cost, and large-scale manufacturing method of microfluidic chips.