Microgripper RA

As of 1st December 2013, Linzi will be working on the Durham Microgripper Project.  The research explores the design, modelling, fabrication and testing of a thermoelectrically actuated microgripper for the manipulation of single cells and other biological particles. A suitable combination of conductive and polymeric materials together with the design of a highly efficient electro-thermal actuator has produced a microgripper that can be operated in air in in liquid environments without inducing electrolysis.  It produces large deflections at low voltage and power. Micromanipulation experiments have successfully demonstrated the gripping, holding and positioning of a micro sized object.