Functional Surfaces

Lecturer(s)

Prof. M. Textor, Prof. N.D. Spencer, Dr. M. Morstein (Platit AG), Dr. P.-A. Groening (EMPA Thun)

Hour(s) of lecture(s), exercise(s) and credit points

2L
2E
4CP

Teaching goals

This is an introductory course in the field of surface modifications and properties. The goal is that the students get acquainted with a number of important techniques for the functionalization of surfaces on substrates ranging from metals to inorganic/ceramic materials to polymers. The course covers both the more traditional techniques that are widely used today for industrial applications (e.g., automotive, machine, packaging, electronics industry) as well as more recently developed methods primarily used in research. An important teaching aspect is to discuss the surface functionalization techniques in the context of achieving a particular portfolio of physico-chemical and technical properties, which is characteristic for a given application. Functionalities are discussed in the context of important performance criteria ranging from tribology (friction and wear protection) and corrosion resistance, to adhesion of polymer coatings, to decorative aspects. Economical and ecological aspects are covered where appropriate. Bio-related surface modifications are not included in this course as there is the parallel, specialized course “Biomaterial Surfaces: Properties and Characterization”.

Summary and outline

1. Relevance of surface properties for device performance
2. Overview of surface functionalization techniques
3. Chemical surface treatment
4. Electrochemical surface treatment: anodization, electroplating
5. Physical and chemical vapour deposition
6. Conversion coatings and lacquering
7. Plasma-based surface modifications: activation, plasma deposition
8. Molecular assembly systems
9. Characterization techniques, property evaluation and typical applications are discussed in each section.
10. Excursion

Literature

Script and references given therein