Fabrication technology self-assembly

All resists and technologies described so far originate liom pursuing a top-down approach. Smaller features can be obtained by using lower wavelength irradiation, more sensitive resists for smaller wavelengths, and better optics. In a bottom-up approach structures can be fabricated by self-assembly processes as weU. 

Within the specific context of micro- and nanofluidics, the fabrication of self-assembled nanostrucures can represent an enabling technology for novel engineering applications. One such application - and the specific motivation for this article - lies in the creation of catalytic nanostructures for micro-Znanoscale reacting flow systems. A specific example is the catalyzed chemical decomposition of monopropellant fuels for the purposes of small satellite micropropulsion [1] (Fig. 2). Here, the size and density of nanorod formations naturally provide the high surface area-to-volume ratios desirable for efficient catalysis in microscale geometries. Certainly other important appli-... 

Fundamental research to support materials assembly and fabrication probably centers on the seienee and technology of adhesion, although research on mechanical assembly driven by ehemieal aetion, sueh as the self-assembly of large molecules or particles, also holds promise for solving some fabrieation problems. 

The foregoing results demonstrate that the thickness of the capsule wall can be controlled at the nanometer level by varying the number of deposition cycles, while the shell size and shape are predetermined by the dimensions of the templating colloid employed. This approach has recently been used to produce hollow iron oxide, magnetic, and heterocomposite capsules [108], The fabrication of these and related capsules is expected to open up new areas of applications, particularly since the technology of self-assembly and colloidal templating allows unprecedented control over the geometry, size, diameter, wall thickness, and composition of the hollow capsules. This provides a means to tailor then-properties to meet the criteria of certain applications. 

In addition, fabrication of antibody arrays on the solid surface by LB film technology coupled with self-assembly technology will also be presented. 

---