Patent attributes
Embodiments relate to an apparatus for forming nano-structures with tailored properties on objects while fabricating the objects. The apparatus includes a reservoir that holds compositions therein. Each of the compositions includes a nano-structural material, a plurality of grain growth inhibitor nano-particles, and at least one of a tailoring solute and a plurality of tailoring nano-particles. A nozzle is operatively coupled to the reservoir and a translatable stage is positioned proximate to the nozzle. The stage includes a substrate holder adapted to hold a substrate. A surface profile determination device is positioned proximate to the stage to obtain profile data of the substrate. A control unit is operatively coupled to the device and the stage and regulates manufacture of a pinned nano-structure. The control unit forms deposition layers positioned proximal to the substrate with the compositions through electrospray techniques.