Basic Solvent Considerations:
1. The spin coating solvent must be volatile and capable of completely dissolving the solute material. As per basic solubility rules, solvents will best dissolve solutes of similar polarity. Some examples of solvents are:
⚠Warning: Many solvents are toxic, and their use requires safety goggles, long pants, and closed toe shoes. Always consult an MSDS for more information about hazardous materials. ⚠
2. When deciding how much solvent to add, consider the target film thickness; the solution concentration is directly proportional to the thickness of the film.
3. The proportionality constant may differ depending on what solvent and solute is being used. If you are having trouble producing quality films, consider changing solvent. Consult literature to find optimal solvents.
Advanced Solvent Considerations:
1. Low viscosity solvents, like chloroform, can be difficult to use. These solvents tend to drip out of pipets, increasing the likelihood of uneven coating.
2. Multiple solvents can be used to better dissolve solutes, or dissolve multiple solutes.
3. The solvent used may affect the microscopic properties of the film. For example, if a solvent takes a long time to fully dry, the solute may have time to crystalize. Consult literature to find optimal solvents for desired film qualities.