Electrochemical micro/nano-machining for surface structuring of curved workpieces of difficult-to-cut materials based on an AFM platform

Surface micro/nano-structuring of curved workpieces with features smaller than 50 µm is a new challenge in the micromanufacturing research community and it becomes even more challenging on difficult-to-cut materials. These typically have high requirements on surface integrity, preservation of specific microstructure and functional properties. Electrochemical micromachining is a promising process which can produce high-quality surfaces, without process related tool wear, and independently of workpiece hardness. 
This project aims at downscaling the tool-based electrochemical micromachining process. It is focusing on an innovative micro/nano structuring technology for producing functional surfaces on curved workpieces of difficult-to-cut materials. This machining process will be realized on a nanomotion platform and using an AFM tip with a nanofluidic channel to supply electrolyte in the machining zone. An alternate tooling approach using an integrated carbon nanotube-AFM tip is put forward to make the micro/nano-structuring process independent of AFM tip geometry. NbC is selected as a difficult-to-cut workpiece material due to its wide range of applications in cutting tools and moulds for injection moulding. The project will perform fundamental studies on micro/nano-structuring process development and material removal mechanisms with downscaled electrochemical micromachining process.