| Ever since the discovery of poly(tetrafluoroethylene) in 1938 by Roy Plunkett, fluoropolymers have been an integral part of society. These unique polymers have fluorine atoms either on the polymer backbone or side chain which give them characteristics unlike any hydrocarbon polymers. These polymers have often been characterized by their hydrophobicity; enhanced thermal, chemical, and oxidative stability; reduced adhesion; improved biocompatibility; and increased gas permeability. The combination of these properties allow fluoropolymers to be used in a variety of applications including polymer membrane electrolytes in fuel cells and as photoresists.; Although fuel cells were invented nearly 150 years ago, it wasn't until the 1960s that industry took an interest in their development. With the advent of the space program, fuel cells began to see their first practical applications as spacecraft power sources for the Gemini and Apollo missions. Today, fuel cell development has been the center of extensive research efforts which focus on fuel cells as practical and environmentally friendly power sources. The research presented is focused on polymer membrane electrolytes for fuel cells and will discuss bis[(perfluoroalkyl)sulfonyl]imide superacid polymers and the synthesis of these polymers.; Ever since the creation of the first integrated circuit in 1958, the evolution of microelectronics has proceeded at a rapid pace. The semiconductor industry has banked on 157nm lithography to meet the manufacturing needs of the 100nm node and semiconductor device manufacturers plan to start making products with 157nm lithography beginning in 2004. However, the advent of 157nm photolithography requires new pellicle materials, a new laser, new quartz materials for mask blanks, improved calcium fluoride for lens fabrication, a new exposure tool, and a new photoresist. The second part of the research will focus on new fluorinated photoresists for 157mm lithography. |
