Reaction–diffusion phenomena in a PDMS matrix can modify its topography

Abstract

Various reagents and solvents can be absorbed into polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), which may be a concern for many applications. We hypothesize that these absorbed reagents can also react with each other within the elastomer matrix. Here we demonstrate this phenomenon and use it as a means to physically modify the surface topography of the PDMS by generating wrinkles or pores.