We demonstrate a facile, nanoscale surface patterning method for the electrochemical modification of polymer brushes that we term field-induced nanolithography (FINL). Using a serial or parrallel patterning method, FINL locally activates non-fouling polymer brush surfaces for the subsequent attachment of biologically relevant molecular probes. Pattern transfer occurs after applying an adequately high bias voltage between a conductively coated tip or stamp and the underlying substrate. While in contact we have found that the electrochemical reaction is localized to the top working electrode. FINL is demonstrated on non-fouling poly(oligo(ethylene glycol) methyl methacrylate) (POEGMA) brushes. Using POEGMA brush, we characterized FINL generated features as a function of applied bias voltage, relative humidity, and exposure time. We demonstrate both serial (SPM tip) and parallel (stamp) based patterning methods. Finally, we use the FINL imparted chemical functionality to attach surface reactive fluorescent probes onto non-fouling POEGMA brushes

Field-induced nanolithography for the patterning of non-fouling polymer brushes

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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