ransfer Printing Techniques for Materials Assembly and Micro/Nanodevice Fabrication

1. Andrew Carlson¹, 
2. Audrey M. Bowen²,
3. Yonggang Huang^3,*, 
4. Ralph G. Nuzzo^2,*,
5. John A. Rogers^1,*

Article first published online: 31 AUG 2012

DOI: 10.1002/adma.201201386

Transfer printing represents a set of techniques for deterministic assembly of micro-and nanomaterials into spatially organized, functional arrangements with two and three-dimensional layouts. Such processes provide versatile routes not only to test structures and vehicles for scientific studies but also to high-performance, heterogeneously integrated functional systems, including those in flexible electronics, three-dimensional and/or curvilinear optoelectronics, and bio-integrated sensing and therapeutic devices. This article summarizes recent advances in a variety of transfer printing techniques, ranging from the mechanics and materials aspects that govern their operation to engineering features of their use in systems with varying levels of complexity. A concluding section presents perspectives on opportunities for basic and applied research, and on emerging use of these methods in high throughput, industrial-scale manufacturing.