Post arrays for the immobilization of vapochromic coordination polymers for chemical sensors

This paper describes a new way of immobilizing Vapochromic Coordination Polymers (VCPs) in micromachined fluorescence chemical sensors. The method involves creating a sheet of post arrays in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) to trap and adhere the VCPs to the sensing surface. The method is simple, robust, and employs micro-molding of PDMS polymer. Early results of this preliminary study suggest that, compared to un-patterned (flat) PDMS surfaces: 1) we can detect ammonia gas without rendering the VCP inert (unable to fluoresce); and 2) the technique has improved immobilization (attachment of VCP).