The Institute of Microstructure Technology (IMT) develops micro- and nanoactuators using smart materials. Among the class of smart materials, shape memory alloys (SMAs) shows multifunctional properties including the shape memory effect, thermal and structural effects. This enables the development of novel bi-directional and bi-stable actuators on the micro- and nanometer scale, which are of special interest for applications in small space, e.g., in nano-photonics and microrobotics.
The aim of this Bachelor/Master thesis is to design, fabricate and characterize SMA-based micro- and nanoactuators for applications in nanophotonics using cleanroom techniques. Your tasks include:
The focus of the work can be tailored to the applicant's interests and competencies. IMT has extensive state-of-the-art equipment (600 m² clean room with fully equipped technologies, rapid prototyping processes such as 3D printing and laser cutting, assembly and joining technology laboratories, various metrological laboratories). Intensive support ensures that the work can be carried out within the given time frame.
Field of Study: Mechanical engineering, material science, micro- and nanotechnology
3-6 Months
For further information, please contact Zixiong Li, phone +49 721 608-24684, e-mail: zixiong.li@kit.edu.