We pursue research in microelectromechanical systems (MEMS). The majority of our work is in the areas microfluidics and sensing technology. We investigate flow physics of complex microflows, and develop microflow control strategies as well as microflow characterization methods. We develop new sensing concepts for environmental sensing and for biomedical applications. Other work focuses on microoptical devices and the development of functional material and fabrication processes for sensors and actuators.
A Smart Impact
A novel methodology for controlling the spreading of droplets impacting a substrate is presented. It is shown that the maximum diameter of a droplet at equilibrium can be controlled through the substrate temperature. Our latest results can be found at Soft Matter, 2014,10, 808-812.
Fabrication of Microneedles
Many vaccines are currently administered via intradermal or intramuscular injections; however, immune responses to vaccines can be greatly improved by their administration into the skin without inducing potential toxic effects.
Evaporation-Driven Low Reynolds Number Flows
Evaporation of a polymer solution is widely used in many industrial processes such as solvent-casting, microneedle fabrication, ink-jet printing, adhesive bonding and also painting and coating purposes.
Evaporation of Sessile Droplets
The evaporation of droplets with complex shapes, including line droplets has several applications in printing and painting industries.