Multi-modal characterization of nanogram amounts of a photosensitive polymer

Abstract

Here, we demonstrate multi-modal approach of simultaneous characterization of poly(vinyl cinnamate) (PVCN) using a microcantilever sensor. We integrate nanomechanical thermal analysis with photothermal cantilever deflection spectroscopy for discerning ultraviolet (UV) exposure-induced variations in the thermodynamic and thermomechanical properties of the PVCN as a function of temperature and UV irradiation time. UV radiation-induced photo-cross-linking processes in the PVCN are verified with the increase of the Young's modulus and cantilever deflection as well as the decrease in the hysteresis of deflection and the intensity of C C peak in the nanomechanical infrared spectrum as a function of UV irradiation time. (C) 2013 American Institute of Physics. [http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.4788740]