Influence of Low Molecular Weight PDMS Chains in PDMS-based Non-Photolithography

We describe that an elastomeric stamp of poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) can modify the surface energy of some surfaces when brought into conformal contact with the number of stamping. We focus on an increase of the hydrophobicity of the patterned surface due to diffusion of low molecular weight (LMW) silicone polymer chains. The transfer of PDMS to the surface during patterning is relevant to and calls for attention by those who are using this method in applications where control of the surface chemistry is of importance for the application.