This study's newly invented approaches for the low-cost mass production of micro-devices could yield unprecedented breakthroughs in genetically engineered microdevices (GEMs) for biomedical, computing, environmental cleanup, defense and numerous other applications.
Conventional microfabrication processes, similar to methods used to make computer microchips, are expensive (i.e., capital equipment intensive) and not well-suited for directly producing large numbers of complex, three-dimensional, nanostructured devices with a wide variety of chemistries and properties. Nature, on the other hand, provides spectacular examples of micro-organisms that synthesize microscopic nanostructured shells with well-controlled and highly-reproducible 3-D shapes and features currently unattainable by manmade processes. However, the naturally occurring diatom microshells do not have the specific properties needed for device applications, such as electrical conductivity, biocompatibility, thermal stability, and chemical compatibility.
According to the study's lead author, Kenneth Sandhage, "By demonstrating that biologically derived structures can be chemically modified without changing the starting shapes or fine features, we have opened the door for new research and development in the processing and application of many devices that would otherwise be very difficult or expensive to produce."
This study is published in the International Journal of Applied Ceramic Technology. Mediawishing to receive a PDF of the article contact please ProfessionalNews@bos.blackwellpublishing.net.
Ken H. Sandhage, PhD. is the B. Mifflin Hood Professor of Ceramic Engineering and Director of the Biologically Enabled Advanced Manufacturing Center at the School of Materials and Science Engineering, and the Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Georgia Institute of Technology. Dr. Sandhage is available for questions and interviews and can be reached at (404) 894-6882 or ken.sandhage@mse.gatech.edu.
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The International Journal of Applied Ceramic Technology publishes cutting edge applied research and development work focused on commercialization of engineered ceramics, products and processes. The publication also explores the barriers to commercialization, design and testing, environmental health issues, international standardization activities, databases, and cost models. Designed to get high quality information to end-users quickly, the peer process is led by an editorial board of experts from industry, government, and universities. Each issue focuses on a high-interest, high-impact topic plus includes a range of papers detailing applications of ceramics.
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International Journal of Applied Ceramic Technology