Project Details

Organisation:	Institute of Materials Research and Engineering, A*STAR
Mentor:	Dr Low Hong Yee, Mr Tanu Kustandi, Ms Sherry Soh
Members:	T.G.Sivathangavel, Gui Yu Yang
Project Title:	Development of Nanoimprint Lithography for Structural Colour

A. Brief Description of Project

Nanoimprint lithography is a process to replicate nano or micro structures on a surface via various means. Methods include using an electron beam, mould and substrate. Our aim was to replicate or fabricate the nano structures of a butterfly's (Morpho Blue) scales. The reason was that when performed correctly, the reflection of light from the structures would be natural, and not chemical which is what is being done to create colour today. If sucessful, we can apply this principle to swimwear, aeroplane design, contact lenses, etc.

B. Results

We performed the replication successfully. However, we had to shear the structures such that they were inclined at an angle. That process did not yield optimal results. Hence, we researched on the microstructres and the hydrophilicity of different structures.

C. Reflection

Three content knowledge/skills that we have learnt

1. How to use the scanning electron microscope
2. Performing gold coating
3. Fabrication of nano structures

Two interesting aspects about our learning

1. We were very resilient in our experiments. Most of the time, our experiments did not yield the best results, which was a norm in that field. However, we stayed together and exceeded both our expectations of ourselves and our IMRE mentors'.

2. Our initial aim was only to replicate the structures. However, we achieved another aim of explaining in a thesis paper the hydrophilicity of structures.

One take-away for life

1. Be resilient.

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