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Research Highlight

Shape Evolution and Growth Mechanisms of 3D-printed Nanowires

Shape Evolution and Growth Mechanisms of 3D-printed Nanowires
Top: Mesh object model consisting of multiple interconnected nanowires deposited by electron-beam-induced deposition.
Bottom: Nanowire characteristics and factors explored by experiment and simulation (also out-of-plane width).

Scientific Achievement

Nanowire cross-sections were fully characterized and predicted for all possible 3D nanoprinting parameters and geometries.

Significance and Impact

Nanowire cross-sectional area can be controlled for each individual nanowire in a general mesh object model; previously, only nanowire length and inclination angle could be controlled.

Research Details

– 3D nanoprinting using electron-beam-induced deposition makes it possible to print below the resolution limit of conventional 3D printing of polymers. – Experiments were conducted over the complete experimental range, including electron-beam parameters, gas flux parameters, and nanowire inclination; when combined with detailed simulations, the physics governing nanowire cross–sectional area were revealed.   R. Winkler, J. D. Fowlkes, P. D. Rack, G. Kothleitner, and H. Plank, "Shape Evolution and Growth Mechanisms of 3D-Printed Nanowires," Additive Manufacturing (2021).