Towards Programmable 3D Structures at the Microscale

• Applicant: Professorin Dr. Eva Blasco, Ph.D.
• Subject Area: Synthesis and Properties of Functional Materials ; Polymer Materials
• Term: from 2019 to 2023
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 419400349

The aim of the current project is to create objects whose shape at the microscale can be programmed on demand. The technique selected for the 3D printing is direct laser writing (DLW) - also known as 3D laser lithography - an excellent technique for the preparation of 3D microstructures with submicron resolution. In particular, photoresists based on shape memory polymers will be explored. Subsequently, the developed materials will be employed for the manufacturing of dynamic 3D microstructures via laser printing. Additionally, the printed microstructures will be programmed and their response with temperature will be studied carefully. These envisaged smart 3D micro-objects can potentially revolutionize applications in emerging fields such as micro-robotics and lab-on-a-chip systems, yet very challenging with today´s technology.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants