Photoresist Applications and Uses
Learn how to use photoresist to create art and electronics
There are two main types of photoresist-- negative resist and positive resist. With a negative photoresist, the part of the film that is exposed to light becomes insoluble, while with a positive photoresist material, the part of the photoresist that is exposed to light becomes soluble. Both the negative and positive photoresist are commonly used in transferring patterns.Different industries take advantage of photoresist and its transferring abilities. The electronics industry uses photoresist and photoresistant polymers to create circuit boards, while the art industry uses photoresist to transfer images onto glass and other hard surfaces during sandblasting or glass etching. Remember the following when determining photoresist applications and uses:
1. Photoresist liquid can be used to create circuit boards and can be used for other electronic pattern transfers.
2. Glass etching uses photoresist films to achieve an accurate pattern transfer.
3. Photoresist suppliers sell different types of photoresist, so make sure you know what type of photoresist you need for your project.
Use photoresist materials for creating circuit boards
Photoresist and photoresisting polymers can be used to create electronic circuit boards for a variety of computer and electronic devices. The photoresist is applied prior to the etching, or use of ferric chloride.
Try: Jan Wagner's website offers detailed instructions on how to create etched circuit boards, including the step on how to apply and use the photoresist. If you are looking for a company to create circuitry for you, look to MacDermid for professional service using photoresist liquid.
Use photoresist for sandcarving or etching images into glass
Sandblasting or glass etching is a technique that uses photoresist to transfer images to glass surfaces. Photoresist suppliers carry two types of photoresist for this type of project; self-adhesive and those that require a separate adhesive.
Try: Custom Glass Etching of Los Angeles has a brief history of glass etching and describes how photoresist is used in this process. Graydog Services had a detailed overview of photoresist and how it is used in sandblasting and sandcarving techniques.
Find photoresist suppliers that stock, liquid, spray and photoresist film
There are three different types of photoresist: liquid, film and spray. Liquid photoresist manufacturers often sell their products to individuals or companies creating circuit boards. Spray photoresists are often used in microelectronics and photoresist films are used in sandcarving or glass etching techniques.
Try: Rohm and Haas carries liquid photoresist that is used in the creation of circuit boards. Ultrasonic Systems has a spray photoresist that is used to create MEMS devices and wafers. IKONICS Imaging is a photoresist supplier sells a self-adhesive photoresist film used in glass etching.
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