jp002556e_si_001.pdf (89.95 kB)
Microorigami: Fabrication of Small, Three-Dimensional, Metallic Structures
journal contribution
posted on 2000-12-19, 00:00 authored by Scott T. Brittain, Olivier J. A. Schueller, Hongkai Wu, Sue Whitesides, George M. WhitesidesMicrocontact printing (μCP) and wet chemical etching generated two-dimensional (2D) patterns in thin silver
films. Electroplating silver onto these patterns increased the structural integrity of the metal layer. Separating
the metal film from the substrate resulted in free-standing, 2D structures. Folding of these structures along
predesigned “hinges” produced three-dimensional (3D) objects. Additional electrodeposition of nickel welded
hinges into position, strengthened the structure, and joined separate pieces. By printing onto cylindrical surfaces,
it was possible to generate complex shapes efficiently and to minimize joining steps.