Replica Molding for Sample Inspection

by Frederik Stöhr @danchip

Introduction

Negative replicas of micro- or nanostructures can be obtained by casting with PDMS. This can facilitate the characterization of the three dimensional shape, the texture, or the roughness of a given sample. It may circumvent the inabilities of probes (AFM tip, stylus) to approach a surface of e.g. a deep and narrow cavity. It may also circumvent limitations of the optical profiler regarding the maximum detectable slope or the sensitivity of the CCD when measuring strongly tapered or deep cavities. PDMS is a common material in microfabrication and has unique properties that allow replicating features in the single nanometer range [1].

A simplified list of necessary steps is given below.
Please follow the safety and working rules of the individual lab the work is done in and consider the safety instructions given in [2].
There is a dedicated lab for work with PDMS at DTU Nanotech.
Please be aware that it is not allowed to work with PDMS in its uncured state inside the cleanroom. The list of approved chemicals inside the cleanroom still holds.
Details on Danchip’s experience with PDMS as a casting material may be found in [3] (please cite!). A detailed description for PDMS casting can be found in [2] and practical information is given in [4].
The most important steps for obtaining high quality casts are the thorough mixing of the two components of the PDMS Kit (Sylgard 184, Dow Corning) and the sufficient outgassing of the polymer prior and after pouring the polymer into the mould. The house vacuum may be too weak. For special demands, try to get hold of a separate pump like a HiCube Classic from Pfeiffer Vacuum [4] (there is one around at DTU Photonics or Danchip).
The application of an anti-stiction coating, like FDTS, is necessary. It may be applied inside the cleanroom by the MVD. Contact the respective person.
The mold may be reused upon casting without deterioration (try!)

A simplified list of necessary steps

Step	Task	Aim	Methods
1	Sample preparation	A mold containing the sample that is sufficiently sealed to allow holding the viscous polymer.	Some parts from the mechanical workshop, etc. Do not forget poper cleaning.
2	Anti-stiction coating	A sample to which PDMS does not adhere upon casting.	E.g. MVD -> FDTS layer (comply to cleanroom and machine rules)
3	PDMS mixing	A good PDMS mixture.	The kit, a plastic cup, a spatula and patience.
4	Mixture Outgassing	A mixture without any air bubbles apparent.	A desiccator. (~10min)
5	Pouring	The mixture is filled into the structures to be casted.	Gently pour the mixture into the mold.
6	Sample outgassing.	A sample filled with the mixture without air being trapped somewhere.	A desiccator. (~10min)
7	Sample curing	A cured PDMS.	An oven (e.g. 5 hours @ 70C)
8	Sample cooling	A cooled PDMS & sample	~3 hours @ room temperature
9	PDMS release	The PDMS cast ready for further usage	Gently detach the cured PDMS from the mold.