Aligned Multilayer Stacking of Polymer Membranes
Zheng, Susan.
2016
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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 micro... read more-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
