Micro-patterning of Functional Groups onto Polymer Surface Using Capillary Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Jet

To produce micro-size functionalized patterns on polymeric surfaces for further biosensing applications, a micro-capillary atmospheric pressure plasma jet was used. A two step-process was proven to be the best solution to create the patterns with addition of functionalities. The success of the functionalisation and the properties of the patterns were studied in two electrode configurations, and as functions of discharge conditions, such as treatment time. Uniform dots of 20 mu m diameter with a spacing of 300 mu m were produced on the surface of photo-resist film. Same procedure was applied in the case of other polymeric surfaces such as polyethylene and polyurethane, where the time necessary for pretreatment and treatment is longer for the polymeric sheets than in the first case. Discussions on the importance of surface activation prior to treatment are made.