Direct Patterning of Silicon by Photoelectrochemical Etching

Tech ID: 20633 / UC Case 2002-144-0

Technology Description

Researchers at UC San Diego have invented a resistless projection lithographic method to generate three-dimensional patterns on silicon substrates. A porous silicon layer is formed first by projecting an image or test pattern onto a silicon substrate during standard electrochemical etching. The porous layer is then removed in a wet etch revealing a 3-D image or test pattern in micrometer resolution. This technique does not involve the use of complicated, multi-step lithography or mask aligners. It is also quick; a multilayered master can be made from a computer design in less than 60 minutes. Feature sizes of 70 microns have been demonstrated, but smaller features should be possible.

Applications

A wide variety of fields, such as sensors, microfluidics, microanalysis, MEMS, and cell biology might benefit from this invention.

Related Materials

Patent Status

Country Type Number Dated Case
United States Of America Issued Patent 7,433,811 10/07/2008 2002-144
 

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