Roll offset printing process based on interface separation for fine and smooth patterning

• Published in: Thin solid films 2013-12, Vol.548, p.566-571
• Main Authors: Lee, Taik-Min, Han, Hyun-Suk, Kim, Bongmin, Kwak, Sun-Woo, Noh, Jae-Ho, Kim, Inyoung
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Cross-disciplinary physics: materials science; rheology; Exact sciences and technology; Interface separation; Materials science; Methods of nanofabrication; Nanoscale pattern formation; Offset printing; Physics; Printed electronics; Printing; Roll printing
• ISSN: 0040-6090; 1879-2731
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tsf.2013.09.023

This study offers empirical support for thin-film printing process and the use of the roll offset printing process for fine and smooth patterning through interface separation. The thin-film printing process consists of the following four processes: the coating process, off process, patterning process and set process. Of these, the coating process is crucial in determining the thickness and thickness uniformity of the final pattern. The off process brings the coated ink onto the roll blanket 100%; the patterning process plays a role in determining the shape of the final pattern; and the set process delivers the patterned shape on the roll onto the substrate. In experiments, the printing of line widths at approximately 1μm was demonstrated to be feasible. Additionally, the thickness of the printed patterns was found to be uniform and controllable, and smooth-surface printing of Ra 3.5nm was achieved. •We propose a roll offset printing process for fine patterning through interface separation.•It consists of coating process, off process, patterning process and set process.•Printed line-width of around 1μm was achieved.•Smooth-surface printing of Ra 3.5nm was achieved.