Ink-jet Deposition for Direct Write Patterning

Abstract

Deposition of micrometer scale fluid materials on surfaces with controlled volume, area, and position accuracy is a common need for development and application of many microelectronics, MEMS, and optical devices. While approaches include top-down (photo and nanolithography, nanoimprinting) and bottom-up (microcontact printing, dip pen nanolithography) methods, the simplicity, precision, and speed of ink-jet printing technology makes it well-suited for both laboratory research and manufacturing. In the last decade, ink-jet has come to be viewed as a precision microdispensing tool, in addition to its huge success in color printing. Ink-jet patterning is data-driven, non-contact, and is capable of precise deposition of picoliter volumes at high rates, even onto non-planar surfaces. As an additive process, ink-jet deposition can minimize the use of expensive ink materials such as DNA, light-emitting polymers and precious metals. This seminar will provide an overview of current inkjet technology and some typical applications, drawing on the resources available at the IEN and the research of its many users.