Patterning of polypyrrole using a fluoropolymer as an adsorption-protecting molecule

Patterning of the conducting polymer polypyrrole (PPy) was achieved using perfluoropolyether (PFPE) as a mask material. The fluoropolymer PFPE has both hydrophobic and oleophobic properties that allowed the generation of passivated patterns against PPy deposition. We exploited these properties to achieve the selective micropattern deposition of PPy, by simple chemical oxidation in an aqueous solution. Using a microcontact printing method, circle patterns with exposed carboxyl groups were prepared, while other region was protected by PFPE. Chemical oxidation of PPy on the patterned substrate resulted in selective deposition of PPy onto only the carboxylate-terminated regions, with little deposition on the PFPE layer. Cross-sectional analysis of the pattern revealed that the PFPE layer would form a hole-like structure around the carboxylate-terminated surfaces, with PPy deposition only in the holes. The PFPE layer had little influence on surface smoothness, compared to other self-assembled monolayers. These results suggest that PFPE can be used as a protective material for the surface modification and patterning of various materials.