Mechanical Stability Assessment of Silicon Microcapsules

Student’s name: Christopher Ikpefua Home Institution: University of Maryland College Park NNCI Site: SENIC @ Georgia Tech REU Principal Investigator: Dr. Michael Filler-Nanotechnology REU Mentor: Calib Lanier-Nanotechnology Abstract: This project, a collaboration between the Filler and Vogel Labs at Georgia Tech, aims to revolutionize microelectronics manufacturing by developing a scalable, bottom-up approach to create high-performance nanoelectronic elements. The method utilizes silicon microcapsules produced through a double emulsification process, which serve as growth substrates for nanowires via a volumetric vapor-liquid-solid (VLS) mechanism. Central to this innovative approach is the use of a Powder Coat 300 system for tumbling the microcapsules and introducing precursor gasses to initiate nanowire growth. The success of this method hinges on the mechanical stability of the silicon microcapsules during the tumbling process. By assessing the microcapsules' ability to withstand these mechanical stresses, this research aims to validate and optimize the scalability and efficiency of this novel nanoelectronics manufacturing approach. The findings will contribute to the broader goal of making high-performance microelectronics production more accessible and cost-effective.