Modularised and Automated Platforms for Producing Liquid metal-particle Based Functional Composites

Functional metallic nanoparticles (NPs) and microparticles (MPs), as well as stretchable conductive composites (SCCs) made by using these particles as fillers have found widespread use in biosensors, energy, and robotics. To utilise these materials effectively, it is crucial to synthesise them on-demand with desired chemical and physical properties. However, most of the conventional methods for producing NPs/MPs and the corresponding SCCs rely on bulky and expensive equipment and generally need intricate operation with specific expertise, making it difficult for inexperienced researchers to take advantage of these materials. Such a threshold impedes researchers with different knowledge backgrounds from innovating and exploring new directions. To address this, modular and integrated systems have been developed. The major aim of the research is to develop modularised and automated platforms for producing micro and nanosized particles of low-melting-point alloys, such as gallium-based liquid metals, and to use the produced particles for making SCCs with tailored mechanical and electrical properties that enable applications in nanomedicine, wearable sensors, and robotics.