nano-origami
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Researchers use nano-origami to build tiny 3D devices
MIT researchers are developing a new technique to create simple 3D structures out of nanoscale materials. Called "nano-origami," the kids are essentially using traditional micro- and nano-fabrication techniques to make 2D objects, at which point they are folded into pre-determined shapes. The folds can be induced by a number of means, including metal deposits (usually chromium), helium ions, and by running electricity through gold wires embedded in the material. While the process is still in its infancy (and all these options only work to a point) a simple 3D nanoscale capacitor has already been built. The current model has only one fold, but the researchers are hoping to increase the number of folds -- the more folds, they point out, the better the storage potential. Video after the break.
