A look at the repulsion force during probe approach

GE4000 Update

Finally got the data to make sense

Trying to make sense...

Lots of data to look over and draw conclusions.  Here's a sample:

And the raw data:

GE4000 Research in Microsystems and Nanotechnology

To complete my minor in Microsystems and Nanotechnology at UW-Platteville, I will be doing a research project.  This will involve 135 hours of time in the lab using the cleanroom here to do independent studies.  This project will be able to demonstrate the impact of surface treatment of micro-nanofluidic channel wall on slip flow and electrokinectic flow. Surface topography measurements and surface roughness measurements using AFM inside nanofluidic channels will be taken and electrolyte solutions with different pH and concentration will be created.

As of today, the surface roughness of the nanofluidic channels have been calculated.  Here are some of the 3d images generated using tools supplied by Asylum Research:

 

 

Another micromirror project update

Added the last polysilicon layer to mount the mirror on.  Some minor changes have been made since uploading:

Project 1 for MEMS: Micromirror: Update

We have a 3d model! Now to load it in ANSYS!

How amazing is Nanotechnology?

Breakthrough: This metal is almost as light as air

Ultralight materials are usually made up of chaotic structures, like the bubbles in aerogel. But this metal is created out of a solid, repeating structure. It's called an ultralight metallic microlattice, and it's produced in an intriguing way. The method involves using a liquid photopolymer which solidifies when hit by ultraviolet radiation. Scientists shine light on the liquid through a pattern. Only the exposed bits of the liquid become solid, creating a lattice-work scaffold, which is then coated with nickel-phosphorous. Once the photopolymer is etched away, all that is left is a 3D, hollow lattice of metal which is more air than anything else.

Video in action