Laser Induced Nano-Droplet Ejection for the Construction of Nano-Inkjets

Abstract

To achieve precise nano-droplet ejection, the existing microscale inkjet module could be scaled down to nanoscale, including both the fluidic channel and the pressure driver. While 2D/3D nanoscale fluidic channels are currently available, a nanoscale pressure driver providing high enough power intensity to overcome surface tension for nano-droplet ejection is still lacking. In this study, laser induced nanoscale confined heating with nano-nozzles are constructed and demonstrated as a simple and robust approach to achieve the required pressure driver. For the heating with continuous laser, micro spray composed with nano-droplets can be induced from the nano-nozzles. For the heating with nanosecond laser of adequate pulse energy, drop-on-demand ejection of droplets with similar diameter as the apertures of the nano-nozzle can be achieved.