Australian scientists have developed a test to determine blood type that’s simpler and cheaper than anything on the market.

Using antibody impregnated paper that’s manufacturable for 10 cents per test, this almost instantaneous blood test determines the blood type based on the distance the blood travels along the channels in the paper from the point where it’s dropped. The prototype of this new method lets blood type be tested for in one step, and requires no mixing, making it affordable to people in developing countries. The reason it’s so inexpensive it that the production process utilizes inkjet printing.

Test results occur within four to ten minutes, which also helps keep costs down. The entire process will make a huge difference in low income areas where blood transfusions need to given quickly. Have printer will travel!

… the team developed a piece of paper with three arms–each printed with a different antibody that matches the antigens on red blood cells. A drop of blood placed in the center of the paper moves along each arm, but it will be stopped if it meets a matching antibody, revealing the blood type.