Surface functionalization, FHNW School of Engineering and Environment

We develop functionalized polymer surfaces and coatings to precisely tailor wettability, interfacial properties, adhesion, and (bio-)functional characteristics. Using state-of-the-art chemical and physical technologies, we create surfaces with measurable added value for industrial and research applications.

Targeted surface modification enables:

• Improved adhesion of coatings, adhesives, and inks

• Tunable hydrophilic/hydrophobic properties (e.g., self-cleaning or anti-fouling surfaces)

• Biofunctional and biocompatible surface layers

• New functionalities without altering the bulk material

Surface Pre-Treatment and Activation

• Plasma, electron beam, and corona treatments

• Increased surface energy and activation for subsequent processing

Tailored Wettability and Interface Engineering

• Adjustment of hydrophilic, hydrophobic, or amphiphilic surface properties

• Optimization of interfaces for composites, coatings, and bonding processes

Chemical Functionalization (Grafting)

• Grafting of functional polymers, especially using electron beam irradiation

• Introduction of specific chemical groups for sensing, biotechnology, and functional materials

Functional Coatings

• UV-curable functional coatings

• Plasma polymerization for thin functional layers

• Development of application-specific protective and functional coatings

Advanced Materials with Functionalized Fillers

• Development of compounds with surface-modified fillers

• Enhancement of mechanical, thermal, and functional material properties

• New surface functionalities without changing the base polymer

• Improved adhesion, durability, and product performance

• Tailor-made solutions from concept to industrial implementation

• Integrated expertise in chemistry, processing, and analytics