Self-assembly of lithographically patterned micropolyhedra

origami;programmable matter;Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering

Pandey, ShivendraKatz, Howard E. ;

Johns Hopkins University

关键词: origami;    programmable matter;    Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering;   

Others  :  https://jscholarship.library.jhu.edu/bitstream/handle/1774.2/39324/PANDEY-DISSERTATION-2014.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y

瑞士|英语

来源: JOHNS HOPKINS DSpace Repository

【 摘 要 】

Nature utilizes self-assembly to create structures at a range of length scales. In addition, a variety of biological nanostructures such as viruses have polyhedral geometries and are formed using highly parallel assembly processes. In contrast, it is very challenging to assemble synthetic polyhedra with patterned surfaces at sub-millimeter scales using conventional engineering practices. Inspired by natural fabrication, this thesis is focused on understanding how to assemble such patterned micropolyhedra using both modeling and experiments.Specifically, my work is focused on the development of model polyhedral systems using lithography and self-assembly techniques, demonstrating material versatility and uncovering underlying geometric design rules using mathematical tools. I have investigated an algorithmic approach to self-assemble complex polyhedra such as truncated octahedra. Here, new geometric design rules related to compactness of the precursor nets and pathways were uncovered. I also have studied the influence of pathways and degrees of freedom of intermediates in the assembly of polyhedral isomers and these findings have been compared to geometric models of molecular isomers notably cyclohexane. In addition to a fundamental understanding of self-assembly of polyhedra, I have also explored applications of micropolyhedra. Importantly, I studied a molding process to enhance material versatility and fabricate soft-polyhedra composed of gels and polymers of importance in tissue engineering and biomaterials science. I also describe an approach to use polyhedra patterned with circuits and semiconductor chips to create 3D computational devices by aggregation. In summary, the thesis provides new insight and a robust engineering strategy to mass produce patterned micropolyhedra in a cost-effective manner with material versatility and high yield. In addition to demonstrated applications, we anticipate that these micro polyhedra will offer new capabilities in optics, electronics, robotics, materials science and biomedical engineering.