Open-Surface Microfluidics
Our research in microfluidics involves development of novel micro-/nano-fabricated surfaces for controlling phase change processes. Our current focus is on the development of surface tension gradients for passive microdroplet control.
The video above shows a microdroplet being gently deposited onto an aluminium surface where the microdroplet is subsequently, passively transported across the surface. The surface has been laser-etched to set up an micro/nanopattern that is a gradient in area fraction. These patterns are designed using first principles design tools and fabricated in-house using our femto-second laser. The video is best viewed in full screen mode.
Engineering Thermodynamics
Our engineering thermodynamics research includes computational fluid dynamics modelling and design development and performance testing of novel heat exchanger technology. Design, development and performance testing of energy efficient heat pump technology configured for drying processes.
Optical Lithography
Development of advanced interference based optical lithographic imaging techniques for nanofabrication. Specific areas of interest include high and ultra-high NA lithography using liquid-immersion and solid-immersion techniques. This work is done in close collaboration with Otago’s Sub-Wavelength Optics Research group.