Controlled modifications in electronic and chemical structures of a nanoscale region of polystyrene by fast electrons

In this study the effect of electron irradiation on properties of a nanosized area of polystyrene was investigated at various doses by an electron-microscope-electron-spectroscopy system. Therefore, changes in electronic and chemical properties by the exposure were monitored from local areas of the conventional polymer using electron energy loss spectroscopy. Also, their spatial extension was measured by a high angle annular dark field detector. From the study it was found that a nanoscale region of polystyrene can modify its electronic and chemical structures dramatically by the irradiation, and the degree of modifications can be tailored by the electron dose. These results may suggest a way of utilizing conventional polymers in nanotechnology.