Micro-featured polymer components

This proposal addresses challenges regarding the use of thermoplastic polymers in micro-featured mass-produced components. Three fabrication methods are covered: Injection moulding, hot embossing and, to a lesser degree, laser ablation. The innovative c ontributions of the project will be 1) A fundamental understanding of the fabrication processes, including how material parameters and processing conditions affect the properties of the components. Rheology and numerical simulations will be important tool s in these studies. The fabrication techniques will be compared, and guidelines for low-cost high-precision fabrication will be established. 2) Fabrication with novel polymers. This includes nanocomposites being developed in running projects funded by th e Nanomat programme of the Norwegian Research Council. In addition to the focus on fabrication techniques and materials, there will be two case studies, in collaboration with groups working with photonics and microfluidics.These cases, and the associated partners, will provide input on demanding, and scientific relevant, micro-structures. The main applicant of this strategic project is the research institute SINTEF Materials and Chemistry. Ten partners from universities, institutes and industry in five countries contribute with their special skills. One PhD student and 8-10 MSc students will be associated with this project.