Kirigami Engineering-Nanoscale Structures Exhibiting a Range of Controllable 3D Configurations

Kirigami structures provide a promising approach to transform flat films into 3D complex structures that are difficult to achieve by conventional fabrication approaches. By designing the cutting geometry, it is shown that distinct buckling-induced out-of-plane configurations can be obtained, separated by a sharp transition characterized by a critical geometric dimension of the structures. In situ electron microscopy experiments reveal the effect of the ratio between the in-plane cut size and film thickness on out-of-plane configurations. Moreover, geometrically nonlinear finite element analyses (FEA) accurately predict the out-of-plane modes measured experimentally, their transition as a function of cut geometry, and provide the stress-strain response of the kirigami structures. The combined computational-experimental approach and results reported here represent a step forward in the characterization of thin films experiencing buckling-induced out-of-plane shape transformations and provide a path to control 3D configurations of micro- and nanoscale buckling-induced kirigami structures. The out-of-plane configurations promise great utility in the creation of micro- and nanoscale systems that can harness such structural behavior, such as optical scanning micromirrors, novel actuators, and nanorobotics. This work is of particular significance as the kirigami dimensions approach the sub-micrometer scale which is challenging to achieve with conventional micro-electromechanical system technologies.

Automated summary

Kirigami structures offer a promising approach to transform flat films into complex 3D structures, with distinct buckling-induced configurations achievable through design and analysis. In situ electron microscopy experiments and finite element analyses accurately predict out-of-plane modes and stress-strain responses, presenting a step forward in characterizing thin films. The utility of out-of-plane configurations in creating micro- and nanoscale systems, such as optical scanning micromirrors and nanorobotics, is significant as kirigami dimensions approach sub-micrometer scales challenging to achieve with conventional technologies.