Three-dimensional fractal graduated-branching hierarchical structures and fabrication method thereof

摘要

A method to fabricate a hierarchical graduated-branched structure that grows in a three-dimensional pattern down to fractal-branching, nano-size level is detailed. The fractal patterning is accomplished on a three-dimensional (i.e., non-planar) surface, by exposing the surface to a properly focused particle beam, which causes the spontaneous growth of graduated branches all over the surface. The structure can be fabricated with a single material and the fractal-patterning is done in a one step process. No addition of material is required for the formation of each branch. The fractal graduated branching structure can then be molded in order to produce replicas.

主权项

1. A method of developing branching structures, characterized in that it develops graduated branched structures featuring dimensions from the macro to nano level and that it comprises the following steps:
providing a structure(s) featuring dimensions from macro to micro level such as a fiber-like structure(s) (10); completely or partially exposing said provided structure to the scan of a focused particle beam with suitable enemy and focus, said particle beam causing the spontaneous growth of cohesive fractal graduated hierarchical branches (30) (31) (32), to multiple hierarchy, and spatially oriented in one or more directions, i.e. three-dimensionally, and featuring dimension down to, at least, the nano level.