Self-consistent field theory of diblock copolymer melts at patterned surfaces

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Abstract
Self-consistent field theory is used to investigate the density profile of diblock copolymer melts in a thin film confined between two surfaces, one of which carries a chemically active pattern. The temperature is slowly lowered through the critical point in order to obtain well organized structures. For strong surface interactions, the lamellae for symmetric diblock copolymers comply with the surface pattern. Their orientation depends on the ratio of natural bulk period L0 to surface period L. For L0⩽L, the lamellae tilt at an angle θ=arcsin L0/L with respect to the surface. For L0⩾L, the diblocks are distorted close to the surface and the necessary relaxation off the surface induces parallel oriented lamellae with respect to the surface for films thicker than 2 lamellar periods. Very thin films still support the perpendicular orientation.