Abstract: The present invention is directed to micro- and nano-scale imprinting methods and the use of such methods to fabricate supported and/or free-standing 3-D micro- and/or nano-structures of polymeric, ceramic, and/or metallic materials. In some embodiments, a duo-mold approach is employed in the fabrication of these structures. In such methods, surface treatments are employed to impart differential surface energies to different molds and/or different parts of the mold(s). Such surface treatments permit the formation of three-dimensional (3-D) structures through imprinting and the transfer of such structures to a substrate. In some or other embodiments, such surface treatments and variation in glass transition temperature of the polymers used can facilitate separation of the 3-D structures from the molds to form free-standing micro- and/or nano-structures individually and/or in a film.

Abstract: A method of applying a pattern on a topography includes first applying a polymer film to an elastomer member, such as PDMS, to form a pad. The pad is then applied to a substrate having a varying topography under pressure. The polymer film is transferred to the substrate due to the plastic deformation of the polymer film under pressure compared to the elastic deformation of the PDMS member. Thus, upon removal of the pad from the substrate, the PDMS member pulls away from the polymer layer, thereby depositing the polymer layer upon the substrate.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to novel synthetic polymers which contain bulky carboxylic monomer units which contain minimally two aryl rings linked by one or more linking groups such that rotation of the aryl rings relative to each other is structurally prohibited, thus being a rigid bulky monomer unit, or sterically disfavored, thus being a rotationally hindered bulky monomer, and which contain at least one flexibilizing monomer which contains a six- to twelve-membered, conformable carboxylic structure. The bulky and flexible monomer units are linked by suitable linking groups to form polymers which exhibit high Tg but which exhibit ductile behavior. The polymers have optical properties suitable for use as optical disks and other optical elements.

Abstract: A blend comprising a polyalkylene terephthalate resin and an organopolysiloxane-polycarbonate block copolymer having improved impact and heat distortion properties. The polymer blends can be molded or formed into films, sheets, fibers, laminates, or other improved molded articles of manufacture including reinforced articles by conventional techniques.