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

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.