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Patterned polymer films via reactive silane infusion-induced wrinkling
Yinyong Li1, Joseph J Peterson, Sarav B Jhaveri
1Polymer Science and Engineering Department, University of Massachusetts - Amherst, Conte Center for Polymer Research, 120 Governors Drive, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, USA.
Langmuir : the ACS Journal of Surfaces and Colloids
|March 19, 2013
Summary
Researchers developed a novel wrinkling method for poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) films, enabling simultaneous patterning and surface functionalization. This technique produces tunable, submicrometer wrinkled patterns over large areas for diverse applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Surface Chemistry
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (PHEMA) films are widely used but require methods for controlled patterning and surface modification.
- Simultaneous patterning and functionalization of thin films remain a challenge in materials science.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a method for simultaneous patterning and functionalization of HEMA films using reactive silane infusion-based wrinkling.
- To investigate the control over wrinkle wavelength and surface chemistry.
- To explore the potential of these wrinkled patterns in hierarchical structuring and nanoimprint lithography.
Main Methods:
- Reactive silane infusion into thin HEMA films to induce controlled wrinkling.
- Characterization of wrinkle morphology and wavelength using profilometry and microscopy.
- Surface analysis using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) to confirm film structure and chemical composition.
- Combination of wrinkling with lithography for hierarchical patterns.
Main Results:
- Tunable submicrometer wrinkled patterns were achieved over large areas.
- Wrinkle wavelength showed a linear correlation with initial film thickness, consistent with a gradient swollen film model.
- XPS confirmed a two-layer structure: a gradient cross-linked top layer and an un-cross-linked bottom layer.
- Surface chemistry was successfully tuned by infusing various functional silanes.
Conclusions:
- The developed reactive silane infusion wrinkling method offers a facile route for simultaneous patterning and functionalization of HEMA films.
- The method allows for precise control over wrinkle characteristics and surface properties.
- Hierarchical structures and nanoimprint lithography molds can be generated from these wrinkled patterns, opening avenues for advanced material fabrication.
