Directed Self-Assembly of Synthetic Gecko Foot-Hairs.
Introduction:
Assembling small structures like gecko foot hairs in large quantities can is a difficult task. One method to create such structures is to have the structures self-assemble.
Goal:
To develop a process by which we can grow high aspect ratio polymer structures with diameters of a few microns.
Approach:
By inducing a gradient across a thin layer of liquid polymer, we are able to grow columns of polymer. By altering the parameters of the setup, we can change the density and size of the coulumns.
Benefits:
Using directed self-assembly techniques, we will be able to grow synthetic gecko foot hairs in any quantity. The structures will then be very cost effective to produce. Furthermore it will be trivial to alter the density and size of the hairs, so optimization for different surfaces will be easier.
Past Members:
Gaurav Shah,
Burak Aksak,
Metin Sitti
[Top view of columns grown with directed self-assembly techniques]