Micro-Relays With Liquid Metal Dispersion

The fluidic properties of a system consisting of a liquid metal in an insulating fluid can be leveraged for reconfigurable switches responsive to non-contact and contact stimuli like electromagnetic fields and mechanical forces. Since liquid metal particles have significant electric polarizability, they are the most conducive to micromanipulation through low frequency electric fields. Herein, we demonstrate a switching application and fault repair mechanism exhibited by Eutectic Galn (EGaIn) microparticles dispersed in the insulating liquid medium of silicone oil. By virtue of being entirely fluid, the system retains its properties in variable mechanical configurations, enabling its applications in reconfigurable devices and soft robotics.