Structured bis-polylactyl-18-crown-6 films and their application as templates for nanopatterned surfaces

Here we report on the use of a thin film of bis-polylactyl-18-crown-6, which exhibits high regular micro- and nano-structured holes without the need for selective degrdn. The size and shape of the holes depend on the polymer structure, film thickness and substrate. Films of the polylactide on silicon wafers have been used as pos. and neg. resists by reaction of (functional) chlorosilanes with the bare underlying substrate (see image). We are currently investigating the influence of the substrate and the applied solvent as well as polymer properties and concn. on the size and size distribution of the holes. Irresp. of the mechanism we have demonstrated the application of these nanostructured films as templates for the formation of nanopatterned substrates. A no. of different other methods, like electrodeless metal plating and subsequent modification reactions with functional silanes are under investigation.