Abstract
Self-assembly due to capillary forces is a common method for generating two-dimensional mesoscale structures from identical floating particles at the liquid–air interface. Designing building blocks to obtain a desired mesoscopic structure is a scientific challenge. We show herein that it is possible to shape the particles with a low cost three-dimensional printer, for composing specific mesoscopic structures. Our method is based on the creation of capillary multipoles inducing either attractive or repulsive forces. Since capillary interactions can be downscaled, our method opens new paths toward low cost microfabrication.
Highlights
Capillary driven self-assembly consists of suspending small objects at the water–air interface
Extensive research demonstrated that the ‘selfassembly’ of small-scale structures can be achieved along liquid interfaces, opening ways to much simplified manufacturing processes for micro-electromechanical systems [1, 2]
The liquid curvature near tips is similar to the curvature induced by the branches
Summary
Capillary driven self-assembly consists of suspending small objects at the water–air interface. Due to the balance between gravity and surface tension, the interface is slightly deformed, inducing a net force between the particles. Depending on the meniscus sign around each particle, both attractive or repulsive interactions can be obtained as illustrated in figure 1. Extensive research demonstrated that the ‘selfassembly’ of small-scale structures can be achieved along liquid interfaces, opening ways to much simplified manufacturing processes for micro-electromechanical systems [1, 2].
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
