In 1984, Cytonix built devices for micro-manipulation of chemical and biological fluids by optically or electromagnetically controlling the surface energy of hydrophobic surfaces using electrodes and optics. Electrowetting was used on a microscopic scale to load channels and reservoirs, direct the flow of fluids and move packets of liquid along directed paths. Since that time, Cytonix has been engaged in the development of hydrophobic, oleophobic and superhydrophobic materials, miniaturized fluidics and methods of fluid control.
FluoroPel PFC 1601V, PFC 1101V and M1604V, were developed for Electrowetting. These coatings have low surface energy, minimal contact angle hysteresis and UV breakdown resistance. M1604V is a superhydrophobic material, exhibiting contact angels of greater than 140° to water. FluoroPel PFC 1601V and 1101V are favored materials for electro-wetting sign and displays.
PFC 1101V is a one percent fluoropolymer solution in fluorosolvent (BP=110°C). Thin films dry in 3-5 hours at room temperature to a surface energy of about 16 dynes/cm. Heating to 120°C for 30 minutes optimizes adhesion and reduces the surface energy to about 14 dynes/cm. PFC1101V is recommended for spin, spray or blot applications. The co-polymer with silane functionality (PFC 1101V-FS) is recommended for adhesion to glass and other oxide rich and conductive surfaces.
PFC 1601V is a one percent fluoropolymer solution in fluorosolvent (BP=160°C). Thin films dry in 4-6 hours at room temperature to a surface energy of about 16 dynes/cm. Heating to 180°C for 30 minutes optimizes adhesion and reduces the surface energy to about 14 dynes/cm. PFC1601V is recommended for spin, spray or blot applications. The co-polymer with silane functionality (PFC 1601V-FS) is recommended for adhesion to glass and other oxide rich and conductive surfaces.
