Methods utilizing reversibly adhesive layers for forming patterned microstructures
AssigneeThe Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Inc.
InventorRicky K. Soong
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Abstract
A method for forming a nano/microstructure includes applying a release coating having a transition temperature to a mold, the release coating promoting adhesion thereto at temperatures below the transition temperature and release at temperatures above the transition temperature. A cast material is adhered to the release coating at a first temperature below the transition temperature and released from the mold by exposing the release coating to a second temperature greater than the transition temperature.
Claims29
A method for forming a nano/microstructure, the method comprising:
- applying a release coating having a transition temperature to a mold, the release coating promoting adhesion thereto at temperatures below the transition temperature and release at temperatures above the transition temperature;
- adhering a cast material to the release coating at a first temperature below the transition temperature;
- and
- releasing the cast material from the mold by exposing the release coating to a second temperature greater than the transition temperature.
A reversibly adhesive coating consisting essentially of agarose dissolved in water, the coating having a transition temperature,
- wherein, at a first temperature below the transition temperature, the coating promotes adhesion of material thereto, and, at a second temperature above the transition temperature, the coating promotes release of material adhered thereto.
A method for forming a release coating consisting essentially of dissolving agarose in water,
- wherein (i) the release coating consists essentially of agarose dissolved in water, (ii) the release coating has a transition temperature, and (iii) at a first temperature below the transition temperature, the release coating promotes adhesion of material thereto, and, at a second temperature above the transition temperature, the release coating promotes release of material adhered thereto.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.