Surface Science: Polymer Thin Films, Coatings and Adhesives

The Reprint of the Special Issue "Surface Science: Polymer Thin Films, Coatings and Adhesives" in the journal Surfaces gathers cutting-edge original research articles discussing how mastering surface and interface properties and phenomena allow the development of new polymer-based thin films, coatings and adhesives. Dedicated articles address topics related to new chemical (nanoimprinting coupled to controlled graft polymerization) and physical (plasma activation) surface treatments to prepare surface-functionalized polymer-based films and fibres or to enhance corrosion protection. Wettability challenges are also highlighted in this Reprint, demonstrating how Marangoni flow drives self-assembling of hydrogels. The core of the Reprint concerns the development of advanced coatings with original articles on new polyurethane preventive coatings, functional polyacrylate textile coatings and waterborne acrylic coatings. Finally, the chosen articles discuss the enhancement of ultimate properties (fracture toughness, wear), performances and sustainability of polymer films and coatings.