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Updated: May 17, 2026
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Reactive Vapor Deposition of Conjugated Polymer Films on Arbitrary Substrates
Published on: January 17, 2018
Tailored nanoporous coatings fabricated on conformable polymer substrates
David J Poxson1, Frank W Mont, Jaehee Cho
1Rensselaer Nanotechnology Center, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 Eighth Street, Troy, New York 12180, USA. poxsod2@rpi.edu
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
|November 3, 2012
Summary
This study introduces novel nanoporous/polymer composite systems (NPCS) fabricated using oblique-angle electron-beam deposition. These flexible and moldable coatings overcome limitations of traditional rigid substrates, enabling new applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Surface Science
Background:
- Nanoporous coatings offer unique properties but are limited to rigid substrates.
- Current fabrication methods like oblique-angle deposition restrict applications.
- There's a need for flexible and conformable nanoporous materials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop novel nanoporous/polymer composite systems (NPCS).
- To overcome the substrate limitations of traditional nanoporous coatings.
- To enable the application of nanoporous materials on non-planar surfaces.
Main Methods:
- Utilized oblique-angle electron-beam methodology for fabrication.
- Developed composite systems integrating nanoporous films with polymer substrates.
- Investigated the structural and mechanical properties of the resulting NPCS.
Main Results:
- Achieved fine-tuned control over nanoporosity and coating thickness.
- Demonstrated excellent adhesion between the nanoporous coating and polymer substrate.
- Confirmed the ability of NPCS to withstand significant bending and conform to 2D/3D surfaces while retaining structure.
Conclusions:
- Oblique-angle electron-beam fabricated NPCS offer a flexible alternative to traditional coatings.
- These composite systems significantly expand the applicability and functionality of nanoporous materials.
- NPCS enable the integration of tailored nanoporous properties onto diverse surfaces.
