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3D nanoprinting via spatially controlled assembly and polymerization.
Thomas G Pattison1, Shuo Wang2, Robert D Miller3
1Polymer Science Group, Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia.
Nature Communications
|April 12, 2022
Summary
This study introduces a nanoscale 3D printing platform using a microfluidic-coupled atomic force microscope (FluidFM) for creating intricate crosslinked polymer structures with high precision.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Polymer Chemistry
Background:
- Macroscale additive manufacturing has advanced significantly.
- Bottom-up formation of nanoscale polymeric features remains a challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel platform for nanoscale 3D printing of crosslinked polymer features.
- To demonstrate precise control over polymer deposition and curing at the nanoscale.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing a microfluidic-coupled atomic force microscope (FluidFM).
- Employing rapid surface-initiated crosslinking with norbornene-functionalized polymers and macrocrosslinkers.
- Delivering polymer to a catalyzed substrate for rapid chemical curing.
Main Results:
- Achieved nanoscale 3D printing of crosslinked polymer features.
- Demonstrated quantitative material addition and multi-layer construction.
- Smallest printed lines were 450 nm with a vertical layer resolution of 2 nm.
Conclusions:
- The developed nanoscale 3D printing platform enables precise fabrication of reactive polymer materials.
- This technology has potential applications in device fabrication, optical systems, and biotechnology.
