An age-old printing process goes nano.

Abstract

Patterning of surfaces has evolved from ancient applications in printed text and art to a host of complex technological applications found today. The desire and ability to shrink patterns to molecular dimensions has enabled new powerful devices, and the need for improved patterning methods continues to be a major research thrust. Commonly referred to as lithographic processes, many advanced printing processes have no true relation to the original concept of lithography. A new paper in this issue of ACS Nano discusses a new form of printing that utilizes block copolymer assemblies as ink reservoirs for pattern transfer. The results show that truly nanometer-sized features can be reproduced accurately over large areas. The parallels to the original form of lithography are quite fascinating, and this new process, called "molecular transfer printing", may hold great promise as a new tool for nanoscale pattern replication.