D.S. Khlebnikova1, М. Tamboura2, М.V. Chichkov3, Е.А. Gosteva4

1–4 National Research Technological University "MISIS" (Moscow, Russia)

4 Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (Moscow, Russia)

1 dariaoft@gmail.com, 2 mamadoutamboura@yahoo.fr, 3 maxim.chichkov@gmail.com, 4 gos-3@mail.ru

The widespread application of graphene in nanoelectronics and photovoltaic devices requires the development of reliable and reproducible methods for its synthesis and transfer onto target substrates. One of the most common methods is the wet transfer of graphene using polymer carriers, such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). However, the use of PMMA is limited because its monomer is listed as a precursor, which stimulates the search for alternative polymers, for example, polybutyl methacrylate (PBMA). A key problem when using PBMA is the influence of the organic solvents used for its application on the quality of the graphene film after transfer. Solvents can affect the defect density of graphene, the film's uniformity, residual polymer contamination, and the process reproducibility. Furthermore, different solvents possess varying toxicity, volatility, and fire hazard, which must also be considered when selecting the optimal formulation for safe and effective use in laboratory conditions.

Thus, there is a need for a systematic study of the influence of various organic solvents on the quality of transferred graphene using PBMA to determine the optimal formulation that ensures minimal defect density, high reproducibility, and process safety.

The results showed that none of the solvents used led to a significant increase in the defect density of graphene compared to its initial state. However, technological peculiarities were identified: pure PBMA and the solution in DMF are prone to rapid curing in air, leading to film tearing, while acetone and toluene have increased fire hazards. Based on the analysis of safety and film quality, it was concluded that acetone is the most preferable solvent for PBMA, as it provides good transfer quality and poses a lower health risk. The use of chloroform or toluene is possible under special safety conditions, whereas pure PBMA and the solution with DMF are not recommended for use.

Since PMMA and many specialized solvents may be unavailable or have supply restrictions, the proposed alternative (PBMA + acetone) is based on accessible and easily producible materials, which contributes to the development of domestic technologies in the field of nanoelectronics.

Khlebnikova D.S., Tamboura М., Chichkov М.V., Gosteva Е.А. Influence of organic solvents on the quality of transferred graphene using Poly(butyl methacrylate). Achievements of modern radioelectronics. 2025. V. 79. № 11. P. 32–38. DOI: https://doi.org/10.18127/ j20700784-202511-03 [in Russian]

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