JR is coordinating the NextGenMicrofluidics project and setting up the Microfluidics Innovation Hub as single entry point for external customers. Technology-wise JR provides design and simulation of lab-on-a-foil components, Roll-to-Roll structuring, biofunctionalization and lamination, design and development of ion-sensitive sensors
JOANNEUM RESEARCH is a national and internationally active research institution owned by the Austrian federal states of Styria, Carinthia and Burgenland. Ideally embedded in the national and international innovation network, our researchers innovate in three high-level fields of expertise: “Information and Production Technologies”, “Human Technologies and Medicine”, and “Society and Sustainability”. We use our ideas, innovative power and considerable research experience to support companies both private and public not only with the development of technology, methods and products, but also with societal topics.
The MATERIALS Institute focuses on the manufacturing value chain for lab-on-a-foil (LoF) components. Starting with the design of microfluidic structures for different applications, we develop imprinting resins with tunable properties, methods for roll-to-roll (R2R) UV-NIL patterning on flexible substrates, R2R microarray spotting and bio-reagent dispensing, and R2R UV-based lamination. In a demo case, we are working with other project partners on manufacturing processes for an IVD consumable to detect COVID-19 antibodies, a test that is planned to be used at the point of care. MATERIALS also coordinates the Open Innovation Test Bed and sets up the Microfluidics Innovation Hub as single entry point for external customers.
The HEALTH Institute is working on the design and development of electrochemical sensors for various medical application. In Demo Case 3 HEALTH is developing together with other project partners a system for smartphone-based quantification of blood potassium, which is intended to enable self-testing by patients at home.
The DIGITAL Institute brings in its expertise in image acquisition and analysis and contributes with an inline monitoring system to the R2R UV-NIL manufacturing line. The system will ensure high quality of the imprinted structures.