Researchers created a new process for geometrically transforming two-dimensional micro/nanostructures into extended 3-D layouts using mechanics principles similar to what is seen in a child's pop-up book.
These structures could be used in a number of man-made systems including biomedical devices, electronics and energy storage, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign reported. The breakthrough is significant because current methods of forming 3-D structures are limited in the classes of material that can be used or geometrics that can be achieved.
"Conventional 3D printing technologies are fantastic, but none offers the ability to build microstructures that embed high performance semiconductors, such as silicon," said John Rogers, a Swanlund Chair and professor of materials science and engineering at Illinois. "We have presented a remarkably simple route to 3D that starts with planar precursor structures formed in nearly any type of material, including the most advanced ones used in photonics and electronics. A stretched, soft substrate imparts forces at precisely defined locations across such a structure to initiate controlled buckling processes that induce rapid, large-area extension into the third dimension. The result transforms these planar materials into well-defined, 3D frameworks with broad geometric diversity."
The method could lead to models that are compatible with even the most advanced materials, fabrication methods and processing techniques from the semiconductor and photonics industries, which could lead to stunning 3-D electronics and electromagnetic devices.
"This work establishes the concepts and a framework of understanding. We're now exploiting these ideas in the construction of high performance electronic scaffolds for actively guiding and monitoring growth of tissue cultures, and networks for 3D electronic systems that can bend and shape themselves to the organs of the human body. We're very enthusiastic about the possibilities," Rogers concluded.
The findings were published in a recent edition of the journal Science.
WATCH:
