Abstract: Lateral pores in a thin metal film as well as fabricating branching and expanding ore arrays can be fabricated by a method of growing long pores laterally underneath a ask by use of stress compliant masks or varying the anodization voltage. Applications range from use with scanning electron microscope (SEM-compatible single molecule probe stations), to nanowire fixtures and to the use with a “pixelating, nonscanning” near field optical microscope (NOM). Pores are defined by conventional anodization vertically into the underlying membrane of preporous material through any overlying masking layers. The general solution is to utilize mechanically stable masks that withstand the stress during anodization and counteract the pore formation stress to lead to good pore ordering and directed growth. Multilayer masks are well suited for this. With a composition of materials having different elastic properties, tensile stress can be matched to counteract compressive stress caused by porous material growth.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing decorative panels for use in vehicle interiors. A layer 3 of plant components, such as leaves 6, is glued onto a metal or plastic carrier 1, whose shape allows it to be mounted to dashboards and/or the side panels of the interior; a transparent varnish layer 4 is then applied to the layer of plant components.

Abstract: A composition and process for modifying the surface region of a polymer article. The composition is a mixture of a resin surface modifier ingredient, a resin-swellable organic solvent and a surfactant additive. The composition is contacted with the surface of a resin article, while the article is immersed in a liquid which may also contain a surfactant which is non-aggressive toward the article and immiscible with the solvent. The surfactant alters the wetting characteristics of the air-liquid, or liquid-surface modifier interfaces, or both interfaces, so that a film of the modifier ingredient does not form on the surface of the liquid layer.