Nanopatterning planar and non-planar mold surfaces for a polymer replication

We present a novel process to create nanopatterns on planar and non-planar polymer replication tools, such as metallic molds for an injection molding. Such tools with nanopatterned cavities then allow affordable mass production of nanopatterned polymer parts with inherent advanced functionalities such as low reflectivity or color effects, self cleaning, superhydrofobicity, antifouling, etc, all created in a single injection molding cycle. Presented process is based on the classic cleanroom microfabrication of micro/nano patterns, nickel electroplating and template removal to form a flexible, freestanding nickel foil with a reversed pattern. This foil is then used either as a direct master for polymer replication or as a master for an extremely high pressure embossing of such master onto a metallic injection mold cavity surface coated with special coating, which, when cured, forms robust and hard, glass-like material. We have demonstrated nanopattern transfer on both planar and non-planar geometries and our nanopatterned mold coating can sustain more than 10.000 injection molding cycles. We can coat our nanopatterned mold surfaces with a monolayer of perfluorosilane to further reduce surface energy and sticktion and to facilitate de-molding of plastic parts.1 This allows forming of affordable plastic parts with advanced functionality.