Electron beam patterning of biomolecules.

The patterning of biomolecules on semiconducting surfaces is of central importance in the fabrication of novel biodevices. In the process of patterning, it is required that the biomolecule preserves its properties and the substrate is not damaged by the chemicals, the temperatures or the patterning beams involved in the procedure. Recently, both DUV and electron beam microlithography have been used in order to deposit protein layers in predefined patterns. Various approaches have been used, some involving photoresists. Contrast between exposed and unexposed regions, resolution of adjacent features and sensitivity to dose variation, are the key issues. The approach followed in this paper consists of a direct patterning of a biotin layer, deposited on an amino-silane primed silicon nitride surface, using an electron beam. After irradiation, the surface is covered by bovine serum albumin (BSA), which acts as a blocking material to protect the exposed areas from streptavidin adsorption. Using 20 keV e-beam energy and doses, in the range 100-1000 microC/cm(2), submicrometer dense lines of 1-microm pitch have been obtained. The results have been tested by fluorescence optical microscopy.