November 2, 2003

Nano Tweezer

Source: Peter Bøggild

References:

Researchers at the Technical University of Denmark have created a new multi-function sensing and manipulating nanotool - a nanohand - which is fabricated using microtechnology combined with direct-write freeform 3D nanofabrication, in collaboration with Lund University. 

Two narrow fingers with customizable shapes form the tweezer. The tweezer can be opened and closed using electrostatic voltages. By using force feedback (like atomic force microscopy) the device can image surfaces and nanostructures. The needles are conducting and can also be used for electrical measurement. A nanotweezer with a 20 nm gap was produced.

 

Above is an SEM image of a microactuator. The inset show a magnified section of the cantilever tips, with two narrow tweezers fingers.  It may become possible to put your nanodevices together piece by piece, like tiny building blocks.