Patterning Thin Film Mechanical Properties to Drive Assembly of Complex 3D Structures

Abstract

Thin films of metal and polymer are patterned with varying geometry, moduli, and initial stresses to fold into complex 3D structures. In the schematic (top) the rigid segments, flexible hinges, and hollow areas are visible. In the optical and fluorescent micrograph below, cells were cultured on the self-assembled structures, and fluoresce green as they are alive. Detailed facts of importance to specialist readers are published as ”Supporting Information”. Such documents are peer-reviewed, but not copy-edited or typeset. They are made available as submitted by the authors. Please note: The publisher is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supporting information supplied by the authors. Any queries (other than missing content) should be directed to the corresponding author for the article.