Mold‐Free Processing Method of Micro Check Valves Based on Laser Assistance and Its Application in Finger‑Actuated POCT Chip

Abstract The development of chip‐integrated micropumps is crucial in point‐of‐care testing (POCT) systems. Among them, mechanical valved micropumps have attracted much attention in the field of POCT due to their efficient fluid actuation capabilities. However, the precision fabrication of their core component, the micro check valve, still faces technical challenges, which limit its wide application. Here, the study proposes a mold‐free processing method based on laser assistance, which innovatively uses laser non‐contact processing to construct a weak interface bonding area to achieve controllable separation of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) layers, combined with PDMS stepwise casting process to precisely fabricate PDMS micro check valves with low actuation thresholds and high sealing performance. Simultaneously, through molding and integrated curing process, the preparation of micropump units and the construction of valved micropumps are achieved respectively. Furthermore, the study has further designed a spring‐return finger‐actuated module to provide a stable pressure cycle for valved micropumps. Finally, a finger‐actuated POCT chip integrated with the valved micropump is successfully developed and verified through the clinical blood group detection application. This work provides a scalable and user‐friendly solution for POCT device development, holding significant application value in primary care and emergency scenarios.