Nanomechanical characterization of polymer layers for high-throughput DNA sequencing

DNA sequencing is the process of determining the exact order of the nucleotide bases (adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine) in a DNA molecule. This technique allows scientists to decode the genetic information contained in an organism's DNA, enabling insights into its genetic makeup, functions, and evolutionary history.
DNA sequencing is used in a variety of fields, including medical diagnostics to identify genetic disorders and mutations, personalized medicine to tailor treatments based on individual genetic profiles, and forensic science for solving crimes and identifying remains. High-Throughput DNA Sequencing, or next-generation sequencing (NGS), involves extracting and fragmenting DNA, attaching adapters to these fragments, and amplifying them to create a DNA library. This library is then loaded onto a sequencing machine, where the process of "sequencing by synthesis" occurs: DNA fragments are bound to a surface, amplified, and fluorescently labeled nucleotides are added.
In this process, polymer coatings are used to create a stable, high-density surface that enhances the immobilization of DNA fragments during the sequencing process. This coating helps to evenly distribute DNA fragments across the sequencing surface, ensuring that they are properly fixed and amplified into clusters. By providing a consistent and controlled environment, the polymer coating improves the efficiency and accuracy of the sequencing reactions, leading to higher quality data and more reliable sequencing results.
In this application report we demonstrate the measurement of mechanical properties and scratch resistance of several polymer coatings deposited on wafer. The measurements of hardness and elastic modulus of the polymeric coating and its adhesion were done using UNHT³ ultra nanoindentation tester and NST³ nano scratch tester.