The great advantage of direct-write techniques is their ability to accomplish both pattern and material transfer processes simultaneously. Examples of direct-write techniques include laser forward transfer, laser micromachining, ink jetting, stereolithography, and multi-photon polymerization. Current research focuses on the development of the above-mentioned direct-write techniques for the rapid prototyping of novel mesoscopic electronic components, sensor elements, and micro-power sources on any type of substrate, over planar or conformal surfaces. The project focuses on the design and fabrication of passive and active electronic components; conformal antennas; miniature physical, chemical, and biological sensors; microbatteries; and micro-ultracapacitors. Included in this work is the characterization of the various devices fabricated using direct-write for optimization of their performance and fine tuning of the direct-write processes, in order to generate devices with performances equal or superior to that of commercially available components. These efforts are directed towards the goal of generating a library of materials and processes for the fabrication of individual components and their integration into complete working systems. A broad range of processing equipment, including three fully automated laser direct-write systems, inkjet and Micropen modules, a femtosecond multi-photon polymerization system, and a picosecond UV laser stereolithography setup are currently available for this work. In addition, extensive characterization facilities for optical (UV-VIS-IR), electrical (DC to RF probe stations with ancillary electronics), and electrochemical (potentiostats and multichannel battery testing systems) evaluation are available to test the structures and components generated. Additional tools for materials and surface characterization (Confocal microscope, stylus profilometer, AFM, SEM, and XRD) are also available for structure-properties evaluation. Materials science engineers, physicists, electrical, and mechanical engineers are encouraged to apply.

 

key words

Printed electronics; Conformal antennas; Ink jetting; Micropen; Laser direct-write; Laser micromachining; Microbatteries; Microsensors; Multi-Photon polymerization; Rapid prototyping; Stereolithography;

Citizenship:  Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents

Level:  Open to Postdoctoral applicants