Gradient chemical micropatterns: A reference substrate for surface nanometrology

We present fabrication routes for a new type of surface specimen that exhibits a micropattern with a gradient in chemical contrast between the pattern domains. Design elements in the specimen allow chemical contrast in the micropattern to be related to well-established surface characterization data, such as contact angle measurements. These gradient specimens represent a reference tool for calibrating image contrast in chemically sensitive scanning probe microscopy techniques and a platform for the high-throughput analysis of polymer thin film behavior.