Microscale liquid-based mechanical elements for multifunctional integration

We report a novel strategy that exploits the unique mechanical characteristics of microscale liquid elements to enable versatile multifunctional integration of brittle components into load-bearing structures. The preliminary feasibility of this integration strategy is demonstrated experimentally using chemically patterned 500 -µm-thick silicon chips to emulate brittle functional components. A systematic study of the mechanical characteristics of microscale liquid bridges, including the force-gap relations under axial loading and the control of rupture distances, is discussed to help guide the systematic design of liquid-based mechanical elements for multifunctional integration.