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Synthesis of Monodisperse Cylindrical Nanoparticles via Crystallization-driven Self-assembly of Biodegradable Block Copolymers
Published on: June 20, 2019
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Single Step Process for Self-Assembled Block Copolymer Patterns via in Situ Annealing during Spin-Casting.
Hyunjung Jung1, Sanghoon Woo1, Youngson Choe2
1Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 136-713, Republic of Korea.
ACS Macro Letters
|May 21, 2022
Summary
Researchers developed a fast, single-step method for creating ordered block copolymer (BCP) patterns using spin-casting and in situ annealing. This technique simplifies BCP film fabrication, yielding well-defined lamellar structures efficiently.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Block copolymers (BCPs) self-assemble into nanostructures.
- Controlling BCP morphology is crucial for advanced material applications.
- Conventional methods for BCP processing are often multi-step and time-consuming.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a simplified and time-efficient method for BCP microphase separation.
- To fabricate well-ordered lamellar patterns in poly(styrene-b-methyl methacrylate) films.
- To investigate the effect of a single-step spin-casting process with in situ annealing.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a single-step spin-casting technique with a low volatile solvent.
- Incorporated in situ annealing during the spin-casting process.
- Fabricated poly(styrene-b-methyl methacrylate) BCP films across a range of molecular weights (51-235 kg/mol).
Main Results:
- Achieved well-ordered lamellar patterns in BCP films.
- The process was completed in a single step within 3 minutes.
- Successful fabrication was achieved without conventional substrate neutralization.
Conclusions:
- A simple and time-efficient method for BCP microphase separation was demonstrated.
- The synergistic effect of slow solvent evaporation and thermal energy during spin-casting promotes ordered lamellar formation.
- This technique offers a streamlined approach for producing well-defined BCP nanostructures.
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