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Reversible Photo-Induced Reshaping of Imprinted Microstructures Using a Low Molecular Azo Dye
Burhan Kaban1, Sekvan Bagatur2, Marcus Soter1
1Institute of Nanostructure Technologies and Analytics (INA) and Center for Interdisciplinary Nanostructure Science and Technology (CINSaT), University of Kassel, Heinrich-Plett-Straße 40, 34132 Kassel, Germany.
Polymers
|February 15, 2022
Summary
This study explored photo-induced shape recovery in azo glass (AZOPD) and polystyrene (PS) blends. A 43% AZOPD blend demonstrated optimal, concentration-dependent shape recovery in nanoimprinted structures.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Science
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Nanoimprinted structures are crucial for advanced applications.
- Controlling shape recovery in these structures is challenging.
- Azo materials offer photo-responsive properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the photo-induced stretching and recovery of nanoimprinted structures.
- To evaluate the effect of azo glass (AZOPD) concentration on shape recovery.
- To explore light and heat as stimuli for recovery.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of AZOPD/PS microstructures using thermal nanoimprint lithography (tNIL).
- Systematic investigation of photo-induced stretching and recovery.
- Testing of various AZOPD concentrations and microstructures (circles, crosses, squares).
Main Results:
- Shape recovery was found to be concentration-dependent.
- The sample with 43 w-% AZOPD exhibited the most controllable recovery.
- Polystyrene (PS) matrix likely plays a stabilizing role in shape recovery.
Conclusions:
- AZOPD/PS blends are promising for photo-responsive nanoimprinted structures.
- Concentration optimization is key for achieving desired shape recovery.
- The PS matrix enhances the stability and controllability of the recovery process.
