Directional Control of Eutectic Gallium-Indium Droplets by Asymmetric Microwall Arrays

초록

Mobilization of eutectic gallium-indium (EGaIn) droplets has been thoroughly investigated as an alternative for mercury since it has low melting point below room temperature as well as low toxicity. In this study, we systematically investigated the methods for directional transportation of EGaIn droplets by wireless magnetomechanical actuation of microwall. To introduce magnetic responsivity, magnetic iron particles are embedded in elastomeric matrix for microwalls. Geometry of microwall is designed to have thicker part connected with thinner part to manipulate stiffness of magnetic actuation along the single microwall, resulting in strain gradient for transportation of EGaIn droplet. We will demonstrate parameter studies for geometry of microwall arrays to implement directional control of EGaIn droplet. Finally, assembly of two EGaIn droplets is demonstrated on pre-programmed magnetic actuation direction of two microwall arrays thereby the transportation direction of EGaIn droplets.