Chips: How to build and implement fluidic devices in flow based systems.

The development of automatic analyzers based on flow techniques involves the use and continuous innovation of fluidic devices. New trends tend toward miniaturization of sophisticated fluidic platforms requiring continuous advances in this field. The availability of a mechanic and electronic workshop together with the know-how to build new fluidic devices provides the tools for the creation of innovative instrumentation and stimulates the creativity of analytical chemists. Thus, in this review we present how to build and use flow-based fluidic devices, together with the tools required, such as computerized controlled lathes, milling machines, laser engraver machines, low-temperature co-fired ceramics technology and 3D printers, highlighting their strong and weak points. In addition, some flow based methods exploiting innovative fluidic platforms are also presented as a way of example of the possible devices these tools can provide and their potential applications.