Research personnel in the Microfluidics Cluster UPV/EHU group of the University of the Basque Country (EHU), led by Ikerbasque professor Lourdes Basabe and professor Fernando Benito, have developed an innovative strategy for creating three-dimensional microstructures with micrometric precision, based on a technique known as vacuum lithography. Since its first article published in ‘Advanced Functional Materials’ in 2016, the group has consolidated its research line with the publication of three works in 2025. This progress has been recognised by the prestigious international journal ‘ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces’, who selected one of their articles for the front cover of its latest edition, highlighting the importance of the work in the fields of advanced materials and microtechnology.

Manufactured with micrometric precision and multiple components

The technique allows the creation, on a flat substrate, of microstructures that are thinner than a human hair, achieving a resolution comparable to that of photolithography used in the production of electronic microchips. By using flexible moulds and negative pressure (vacuum), the liquid or gel materials, including nanoparticles, smart gels and functional polymers, are moulded with a precision of less than 25 microns, achieving stable, reproducible and complex three-dimensional forms in a single step.

This technique also allows the integration of various different functional materials on the same substrate with the same micrometric resolution, expanding the design and manufacturing possibilities for multi-functional, customised devices without sacrificing precision or reproducibility.

Unlike conventional methods such as photolithography or 3D printing, vacuum lithography combines high resolution, versatility in the use of materials and operational simplicity, without the need for costly equipment and complex processes.

Broad potential applications

This new technology offers a range of practical applications in diverse sectors, including:

• Miniaturised chemical and biological sensors, such as colorimetric pH sensors, which are applicable in health, environment and industrial monitoring.
• Advanced cell culture using platforms that allow the study of protein behaviour and secretion in controlled micro-environments.
• Biomedical nanotechnology, with the creation of gold nanoparticle patterns and conductive polymers to control cell adhesion, which is important for tissue engineering and pharmacological trials.
• Rapid-diagnosis portable devices that integrate multiple functional materials with high precision and low cost.

Additional information

Microfluidics Cluster UPV/EHU is a consolidated research group based in Álava, recognised by the Basque Government, and which arose from the strategic collaboration between research teams working on micro and nanotechnologies for ‘lab-on-a-chip’ applications. Its activity is focused on applied and translational research, combining microfluidics, sensors and actuators, to develop microsystems integrated with biomedical diagnostic, environmental analysis, chemistry, sports sciences, biology and medical applications.

The highlighted paper was led by Juncal Alonso, lead author of the work and a doctoral student at the Microfluidics Cluster UPV/EHU. This international recognition is a key milestone in his scientific career and in the Group’s commitment to training young researchers.