While these microfluidic systems primarily operate at the microscale (that is, millionths of a metre), nanotechnology has contributed new concepts and will likely play an increasing role in the future.
Fibre/matrix interface failure as well as matrix plasticity/damage were considered as the fundamental failure mechanisms operating at the microscale under transverse loading.
However, the difficulty of controlling the microscale while operating at the macroscale is insuperable.
The same principle governs how cells control their shape at the microscale.
Dr. Janet Anders is an expert in the characterisation of work in the quantum regime andthermodynamic experiments at the microscale.
Metamaterials may also help scientists manipulate cells at the microscale.
Kim, J., Kim, S. & Bahl, G. Complete linear optical isolation at the microscale with ultralow loss.
Mohanty, S. Optically-actuated translational and rotational motion at the microscale for microfluidic manipulation and characterization.
Ober, T. J., Foresti, D. & Lewis, J. A. Active mixing of complex fluids at the microscale.
This technique could be adapted to simulate the patchy distribution of nutrients in soils at the microscale.
