Preliminary Optimization Results
The paper-based agar that did not receive UV-light treatment grew contamination. We believe this may be due to under-sterilizing of the under side of the paper (which has vaseline as a hydrophobic barrier).
The paper-based agar that did receive UV treatment also appeared to grow contamination. We believe that this may again be due to under-sterilizing the vaseline side of the paper. However, the agar also dried out, possibly because of an insufficiently sized humidity chamber.
Our test sample of 3D printed PLA filament in 1M sodium hydroxide solution. The sample appeared to partially dissolve. If our group is to use this method to dissolve the mold once the PDMS is poured, we may need to use a higher concentration of sodium hydroxide solution to ensure complete dissolving.
Our completed 3D-printed object. We are going to use this as a mold for PDMS. We are experimenting with different techniques to allow for easier release of the PDMS from the mold (so that we can reuse it rather than dissolve it). A wax-based aerosol spray should be effective,or something else hydrophobic such as cooking oil spray.