University of Wisconsin System
Grant: $430,000 - National Science Foundation - Jul. 20, 2009
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Award Description: This award is funded under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Public Law 111-5). The research objective of this Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) project is to advance the capabilities of micro-transfer printing through a fundamental investigation of the process mechanics that combines experimental characterization and computational modeling. Micro-transfer printing is process where a soft elastomer stamp is used to transfer micro- and nano-structures to a broad range of substrates in order to create devices such as flexible electronics, complex micromechanical structures, and solar cells. While micro-transfer printing has been demonstrated numerous times and is beginning to be implemented commercially, there remains significant empiricism in the design of the processes due to a lack of knowledge of the underlying mechanics. In this work, a new method to experimentally investigate the adhesion and separation behavior of interfaces in micro-transfer printing will be developed and used to characterize a series of interfaces important in transfer printing. A computational model that describes the measured behavior of the interfaces will be developed and subsequently integrated into a simulation tool for designing micro-transfer printing processes. The simulation tool, which will be experimentally validated, will be used to develop guidelines for developing robust, manufacturable printing processes. If successful, the results of this research will firmly establish an understanding of the underlying mechanics of microtransfer printing and will lead to improved strategies for designing effective manufacturing processes. Improvements in the robustness, yield, and control of micro-transfer printing processes will result in increased use and capability, ultimately leading to the manufacturing of new types of microscale devices that cannot be realized using existing techniques. The education plan that is tightly integrated with the research effort will: (1) inspire students at all levels to pursue careers in engineering and (2) educate students and practicing engineers in the areas of micro- and nano-manufacturing and interface mechanics.
Project Description: See Award Description
Jobs Summary: The University of Wisconsin - Madison appreciates the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding. This additional funding has allowed us to retain employees and create new jobs. The job classifications that have been created or retained for this award are: Research Support positions. (Total jobs reported: 0)
Project Status: Less Than 50% Completed
This award's data was last updated on Jul. 20, 2009. Help expand these official descriptions using the wiki below.
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