A novel application of FTIR imaging for real-time characterization of patterning photopolymerization processes with microscale spatial resolution is presented. This novel method provides for the microscale analysis and optimization of processes for the integration of polymeric systems with silicon, glass, and gold surfaces in devices. Specifically, intelligent hydrogels were micropatterned onto gold surfaces, and photo-initiated free radical polymerizations have been characterized. It was demonstrated that the differences in reaction rates across the patterned region could be successfully resolved and characterized. In particular, the effect of oxygen inhibition during the photopolymerization reaction of a patterned region was observed. It was observed that with an increase in initiator concentration the oxygen inhibition during polymerization reaction across the patterned region is reduced due to the consumption of oxygen. This novel characterization method based on FTIR imaging will facilitate the optimization of integration process of patterned polymeric films and lead to enhanced (and reproducible) application of these materials as functional components in a variety of microdevices.

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