@article{C6SM02078J,
  title = {Surface tension-driven self-alignment},
  journal = {Soft Matter},
  abstract = {Surface tension-driven self-alignment is a passive and highly-accurate positioning mechanism that can significantly simplify and enhance the construction of advanced microsystems. After years of research{,} demonstrations and developments{,} the surface engineering and manufacturing technology enabling capillary self-alignment has achieved a degree of maturity conducive to a successful transfer to industrial practice. In view of this transition{,} a broad and accessible review of the physics{,} material science and applications of capillary self-alignment is presented. Statics and dynamics of the self-aligning action of deformed liquid bridges are explained through simple models and experiments{,} and all fundamental aspects of surface patterning and conditioning{,} of choice{,} deposition and confinement of liquids{,} and of component feeding and interconnection to substrates are illustrated through relevant applications in micro- and nanotechnology. A final outline addresses remaining challenges and additional extensions envisioned to further spread the use and fully exploit the potential of the technique.},
  volume = {13},
  number = {2},
  pages = {304-327},
  year = {2017},
  slug = {c6sm02078j},
  author = {Mastrangeli, Massimo and Zhou, Quan and Sariola, Veikko and Lambert, Pierre}
}