5. Photocrosslinked polymer properties

Three-dimensional polymer networks formed by photopolymerization of multifunctional monomers are totally insoluble in organic solvents, and exhibit low swelling due to their high degree of cross-linking. This property is used in photolithography to produce the high-definition relief images required for the manufacture of microcircuits and printing plates. Resolving power is a function of irradiation wavelength, reaching a limit value of 0.4 µm for near-UV radiation. The use of photosensitive polymers (photoresists) has made it possible to increase the integration density of microcircuits and miniaturize electronic components.

Most photo-crosslinked polymers exhibit good thermal resistance, and only begin to decompose at temperatures above 400 C. In the case of acrylate resins, for example, thermal aging tests carried out at 110 C in the presence of air revealed...