Fabrication and applications of large arrays of multifunctional rolled-up SiO/SiO ₂ microtubes

Biocompatible, multifunctional large arrays of transparent SiO/SiO2 microtubes are fabricated by rolled-up nanotech. The outer tubular diameter as a function of thicknesses of SiO and SiO2 has been systematically studied and the roll-up parameters have been optimized to deterministically achieve a yield of nearly 100%. A macroscopic continuum mechanical model is in good agreement with the experimental data. The relative ease in functionalization of the “glass” microtubes with different biomaterials renders rolled-up nanotech an excellent option for various on- and off-chip applications, including optofluidic sensors, micro-engines and pre-patterned 3D scaffolds for cell culturing.