Selective deposition of films of polypyrrole, polyaniline and nickel on hydrophobic/hydrophilic patterned surfaces and applications

Computer-generated patterned hydrophobic films are produced on hydrophilic glass substrates by a microcontact "stamp" printing technique. The hydrophobic pattern is produced when the silicone elastomeric stamp ("inked" with C18H37SiCl3) contacts the hydrophilic surface. Thin films of polypyrrole and polyaniline are deposited preferentially on the hydrophobic patterned surfaces from dilute aqueous solutions of the polymerizing monomer. Conversely, strongly adhering films of metals such as nickel are deposited selectively by an electroless process on the hydrophilic substrate surfaces. The properties of the polymers deposited on the hydrophilic and hydrophobic surfaces will be discussed as well as the application of the patterned polymer in liquid crystal displays.