Controlled Morphological Bending of 3D-FEBID Structures via Electron Beam Curing

Focused electron beam induced deposition (FEBID) is one of the few additive, direct-write manufacturing techniques capable of depositing complex 3D nanostructures. In this work, we explore post-growth electron beam curing (EBC) of such platinum-based FEBID deposits, where free-standing, sheet-like elements were deformed in a targeted manner by local irradiation without precursor gas present. This process diminishes the volumes of exposed regions and alters nano-grain sizes, which was comprehensively characterized by SEM, TEM and AFM and complemented by Monte Carlo simulations. For obtaining controlled and reproducible conditions for smooth, stable morphological bending, a wide range of parameters were varied, which will here be presented as a first step towards using local EBC as a tool to realize even more complex nano-architectures, beyond current 3D-FEBID capabilities, such as overhanging structures. We thereby open up a new prospect for future applications in research and development that could even be further developed towards functional imprinting.