Modeling Passive Droplet Deflection in Nanoscale Electrohydrodynamic Printing

Electrohydrodynamic printing enables high-resolution fabrication via nanoscale charged droplets. However, droplet trajectories are sensitive to electric field distortions over nonuniform substrates like coplanar electrodes (CEs). We systematically investigated passive droplet deflection during nanoscale printing on CEs through simulations and experiments. The electrode gap length and nozzle position are identified as key governing factors. A quantitative model relating these parameters to the deposition offset enables trajectory prediction. By applying adaptive speed and dynamic voltage control, continuous conductive silver nanocrystal lines with a 61.1 nm width are fabricated. This work provides a framework for enhancing printing precision in microelectronics and digital manufacturing.