Preparation of polymeric micro- and nanostructures using a template-based deposition method

Polymeric microtubules and nanofibrils have been prepared by depositing a s olution of the desired polymer within the pores of microporous template mem branes. Both microporous alumina and track-etched polyester membranes were used as the templates. Tubules and fibrils composed of polystyrene, poly(2, 6-dimethyl-1,4-phenylene oxide), poly(vinylidene fluoride), poly(methyl met hacrylate), poly(bisphenol A carbonate), and poly(lactic acid) have been pr epared. Nanofibrils with diameters as small as 30 nm have been achieved. A concentric tubular composite microstructure consisting of an outer microtub ule of polystyrene surrounding an inner microwire of polypyrrole has also b een fabricated.