Depth profiling block copolymer microdomains

We have studied the microdomain pattern in a block copolymer system using a recently developed imaging technique. We observe pronounced registry of microdomains from layer to layer, the propagation and evolution of disclinations, and novel morphologies which form at the edge of an island. The imaging of the microdomains is achieved with a nonselective etching technique which smoothly etches away sufficient material to expose the underlying microdomain layer to the surface. Using a low-voltage, high-resolution scanning electron microscope, we image the microdomains of this exposed layer which have been tagged with a staining agent.