Gradient solvent vapor annealing of block copolymer thin films using a microfluidic mixing device.

Albert, Julie N L; Bogart, Timothy D; Lewis, Ronald L; Beers, Kathryn L; Fasolka, Michael J; Hutchison, J Brian; Vogt, Bryan D; Epps, Thomas H · Nano Lett · 2011

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

Solvent vapor annealing (SVA) with solvent mixtures is a promising approach for controlling block copolymer thin film self-assembly. In this work, we present the design and fabrication of a solvent-resistant microfluidic mixing device to produce discrete SVA gradients in solvent composition and/or total solvent concentration. Using this device, we identified solvent composition dependent morphology transformations in poly(styrene-b-isoprene-b-styrene) films. This device enables faster and more robust exploration of SVA parameter space, providing insight into self-assembly phenomena.