3D tribo-nanoprinting: additive manufacturing of nanoscale structures using tribofilms

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3D Tribo-Nanoprinting is a novel method of additive manufacturing capable of producing 3D structures of nanoscale dimensions. In this project I aim to understand the method using the formation of ZDDP tribofilms under the rubbing contact of an Atomic Force Microscope (AFM). This will help to develop the understanding of how these films form and how they provide their crucial anti-wear properties (ZDDP is used as a lubricant additive ubiquitously in the automotive industry). The second part of the project will then attempt to build on this method by applying it to functional materials (ie. any material that can provide beneficial engineering properties such as electrical conductivity or magnetism). The applications of this part of the project include novel biosensors, Micro Electro-Mechanical device (MEMs) manufacture, surface engineering and nanorobotics.