Aligned Multilayer Stacking of Polymer Membranes
Zheng, Susan.
2016
-
Abstract: The
fabrication of artificial biodegradable scaffolds for cell implantation and growth is a
rapidly growing field in bioengineering research, with a wide variety of new and
potential methods and applications. At Tufts University, a micropunching device has been
developed to punch PCL. It is believed that micropunched holes and slots in multiple
layers of PCL, when aligned, can form ... read moremicro-tubules and micro-channels. This can be used
to provide vascularity in tissue scaffolding in order for cells to be able to
proliferate and excrete an extracellular matrix. There currently does not exist a device
that is able to accurately and precisely align and adhere multiple layers together. A
device was built to accurately align 10+ layers with the use of image processing and a
motorized X, Y and theta stage. Multiple automated and manual image processing methods
were explored in MATLAB™. Due to complications resulting from deformations and
shadows from the micropunching process, the final method utilized individually-selected
points on an image of the punched surface to determine the locations of multiple
alignment markers. These locations were used to calculate the number of steps for the X,
Y and theta stage motors to rotate to bring about alignment of the PCL layers. Image
processing tests were performed with 30 μm layers of copper. Adhesion of PCL
layers was separately tested and determined to be possible; the use of a Joule heating
plate and a power supply set to 3.67A and 8V combined with a pressure of 30 psi resulted
in adequate adhesion of 10+ layers of PCL without
melting.
Thesis (M.S.)--Tufts University, 2016.
Submitted to the Dept. of Mechanical Engineering.
Advisor: William Messner.
Committee: Jason Rife, and Lauren Black.
Keywords: Mechanical engineering, and Biomedical engineering.read less - ID:
- 4f16cd85n
- Component ID:
- tufts:21338
- To Cite:
- DCA Citation Guide EndNote
