Using Tert-Butyl Alcohol for Thin PDMS Films
Author Information
Author(s): Koschwanez John H., Carlson Robert H., Meldrum Deirdre R.
Primary Institution: University of Washington
Hypothesis
Can tert-butyl alcohol be used as a solvent for thin PDMS films without swelling the underlying substrate?
Conclusion
Tert-butyl alcohol is an effective solvent for PDMS that does not swell the underlying PDMS substrate.
Supporting Evidence
- Tert-butyl alcohol was the only solvent that dissolved uncured PDMS without visibly warping a cured PDMS membrane.
- The thickness of PDMS films was measured under various conditions to determine the best methods for film creation.
- Biocompatibility was verified by growing yeast cells on the films, which showed normal growth patterns.
Takeaway
This study found that using tert-butyl alcohol instead of hexane to make thin PDMS films is better because it doesn't cause the films to swell.
Methodology
The study tested 12 solvents for their ability to dissolve uncured PDMS and not warp cured PDMS membranes, measuring thickness with an optical profilometer.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on the use of tert-butyl alcohol and did not explore other potential solvents in depth.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95%
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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