Dispersion force engineering. The long path from hooked atoms to next-generation spacecraft

Abstract

This paper presented as a Keynote talk is one of a series by the author analyzing in depth different interrelated aspects of the evolution of our understanding of intermolecular forces from a key speculation within early atomistic philosophy to applications in modern industry products, such as the atomic force microscope (AFM), non-volatile memory elements (NRAM), and “gecko-glue” adhesives. The manner in which dispersion force engineering as an emerging general purpose technology is enabling breakthrough advances in spacecraft performance and extreme space vehicle miniaturization is the overall topic of this paper series.