Fundamental aspects of phase separation microfabrication

In the research featured in this PhD thesis, the fundamental aspects of Phase Separation MicroFabrication (PSµF) were studied. PSµF is a technique through which polymeric porous films with defined structures on their surfaces can be created. This is achieved by phase separation of polymer solutions that are in contact with microstructured molds. Diverse topics were covered, including the study of shrinkage during phase separation and its effect on feature replication, gas entrapment during casting of polymer solutions on molds, release of films perforated by pillars on molds (microsieves) and the development of permeable molds to yield membranes with structures on both sides. The results obtained in this research help in facilitating the successful use of PSµM in future applications.