Direct Writing in Three Dimensions

Concentrated nanoparticle gels were developed for direct writing of complex 3-D structures, including space-filling solids and structures with high aspect ratio walls or spanning (unsupported) elements. These nanostructured inks were engineered to exhibit a well-controlled viscoelastic response necessary for flow during deposition, and subsequent shape retention of the as-deposited features even when they span gaps in the underlying layer(s). The high nanoparticle volume fraction minimizes drying-induced shrinkage enabling the assembly of 3-D nanostructured ceramics.

Q. Li and J. A. Lewis, Adv. Mat. 15 (19) 1639-43 (2003); Invited Cover Article - J. A. Lewis and G. M. Gratson, Materials Today 32-39 (July/August, 2004)