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Recent Advances in Surface Functionalisation, 2nd Edition
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Recent Advances in Surface Functionalisation, 2nd Edition

A special issue of Coatings (ISSN 2079-6412). This special issue belongs to the section "Surface Characterization, Deposition and Modification".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 15 November 2026 | Viewed by 9764

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Juan Manuel Vazquez Martinez

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Design, School of Engineering, University of Cadiz, Adv. Universidad de Cadiz 10, E11519 Puerto Real, Spain
Interests: tribology; surface modification; mechanical behavior of materials; surface characterization; laser surface texturing; metrology; machining; manufacturing processes
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Jorge Salguero

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Design, University of Cadiz, Adv. Universidad de Cadiz 10, E11519 Puerto Real, Spain
Interests: abrasive waterjet; surface quality; hybrid structure; surface texturing; machining; geometric defects
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Currently, a high percentage of materials used in strategic areas, such as the aerospace, energy, or biomedical industries, are subjected to surface modification procedures that adapt their initial properties to specific work conditions. This enhances the performance of the processes in which the manufactured parts are involved.

The surface engineering techniques and procedures used for the modification of the features and mechanical behavior of the manufactured elements allow them to overcome their limitations and enhance the properties of the external layers without affecting the remaining material.

This Special Issue is focused on research regarding surface functionalization, and thus welcomes papers related to the most recent advances in this field.

Dr. Juan Manuel Vazquez Martinez
Dr. Jorge Salguero
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Coatings is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • texturing
  • surface modification
  • wetting behavior
  • surface finish
  • surface characterization
  • wear resistance treatment
  • corrosion resistance surface treatment
  • tribological applications
  • coatings

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Related Special Issue

Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

21 pages, 4861 KB  
Article
Synthesis and Characterization of ITO Films via Forced Hydrolysis for Surface Functionalization of PET Sheets
by Silvia del Carmen Madrigal-Diaz, Laura Cristel Rodríguez-López, Isaura Victoria Fernández-Orozco, Saúl García-López, Cecilia del Carmen Díaz-Reyes, Claudio Martínez-Pacheco, José Luis Cervantes-López, Ibis Ricárdez-Vargas and Laura Lorena Díaz-Flores
Coatings 2026, 16(1), 120; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings16010120 - 16 Jan 2026
Viewed by 430
Abstract
Transparent conductive oxides (TCOs), such as indium tin oxide (ITO), are essential for flexible electronics; however, conventional vacuum-based deposition is costly and thermally aggressive for polymers. This study investigated the surface functionalization of PET substrates with ITO thin film-based forced hydrolysis as a [...] Read more.
Transparent conductive oxides (TCOs), such as indium tin oxide (ITO), are essential for flexible electronics; however, conventional vacuum-based deposition is costly and thermally aggressive for polymers. This study investigated the surface functionalization of PET substrates with ITO thin film-based forced hydrolysis as a low-cost, reproducible alternative. SnO2 nanoparticles were synthesized by forced hydrolysis at 180 °C for 3 h and 6 h, yielding crystalline nanoparticles with a cassiterite phase and an average crystallite size of 20.34 nm. The process showed high reproducibility, enabling consistent structural properties without complex equipment or high-temperature treatments. The SnO2 sample obtained at 3 h was incorporated into commercial In2O3 to form a mixed In–Sn–O oxide, which was subsequently deposited onto PET substrates by spin coating onto UV-activated PET. The resulting 1.1 µm ITO films demonstrated good adhesion (4B according to ASTM D3359), a low resistivity of 1.27 × 10−6 Ω·m, and an average optical transmittance of 80% in the visible range. Although their resistivity is higher than vacuum-processed films, this route provides a superior balance of mechanical robustness, featuring a hardness of (H) of 3.8 GPa and an elastic modulus (E) of 110 GPa. These results highlight forced hydrolysis as a reproducible route for producing ITO/PET thin films. The thickness was strategically optimized to act as a structural buffer, preventing crack propagation during bending. Forced hydrolysis-driven PET sheet functionalization is an effective route for producing durable ITO/PET electrodes that are suitable for flexible sensors and solar cells. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Surface Functionalisation, 2nd Edition)
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25 pages, 5735 KB  
Article
Surface Modification of AZ31 Mg Alloy Based on PLA or PLGA with Caffeic Acid for Bioengineering Applications
by Karol Kyzioł, Janusz Prażuch, Marcin Gołąbczak, Agnieszka Kyzioł, Marek Hebda and Stanisława Kluska
Coatings 2025, 15(11), 1309; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15111309 - 10 Nov 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 759
Abstract
The study is focused on the technology for surface modification of AZ31 magnesium alloy for biomedical applications, in particular in implantology. The experimental procedure consists of intentional stages that involve chemical treatment in piranha solution, plasma chemical activation of the alloy surface using [...] Read more.
The study is focused on the technology for surface modification of AZ31 magnesium alloy for biomedical applications, in particular in implantology. The experimental procedure consists of intentional stages that involve chemical treatment in piranha solution, plasma chemical activation of the alloy surface using Ar and O2 as gaseous precursors, and biopolymer coatings deposition—based on polylactic acid (PLA) and poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) with the addition of caffeic acid—utilizing the immersion method. In the course of the experiment, the validity of the investigated technology of surface modification of AZ31 magnesium alloy was confirmed. The pre-treatment step guaranteed obtaining a higher surface roughness, resulting in homogeneous and stable biopolymer coatings with proper adhesion to the substrate. Moreover, the corrosion studies conducted confirmed better corrosion behaviour of the modified samples in SBF corrosive medium, and no significant release of the alloy-related ions was observed. Furthermore, the biopolymer coatings ensured non-cytotoxicity towards the MG-63 cell line and promoted cell proliferation with proper morphology. Based on the obtained results, it may be concluded that the proposed technology can be treated as an interesting and promising surface-engineering strategy for implantology and biodegradable materials applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Surface Functionalisation, 2nd Edition)
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28 pages, 8557 KB  
Article
Surface Optimization of Additively Manufactured (AM) Stainless Steel Components Using Combined Chemical and Electrochemical Post-Processing
by Pablo Edilberto Sanchez Guerrero, Andrew Grizzle, Daniel Fulford III, Juan Estevez Hernandez, Lucas Rice and Pawan Tyagi
Coatings 2025, 15(10), 1197; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15101197 - 11 Oct 2025
Viewed by 955
Abstract
The design and production of goods have been completely transformed by additive manufacturing (AM), which makes it possible to create components with intricate and complex geometries that were previously impossible or impractical to produce. However, current technologies continue to produce coarse-surfaced metal components [...] Read more.
The design and production of goods have been completely transformed by additive manufacturing (AM), which makes it possible to create components with intricate and complex geometries that were previously impossible or impractical to produce. However, current technologies continue to produce coarse-surfaced metal components that typically exhibit fatigue properties, resulting in component failure and unfavorable friction coefficients on the printed part. Therefore, to improve the surface quality of the fabricated parts, post-processing of AM-created components is required. With emphasis on electroless nickel plating, ChemPolishing (CP), and ElectroPolishing (EP), this study investigates post-processing methods for stainless steel that is additively manufactured (AM). The rough surfaces created by additive manufacturing (AM) restrict direct use. While ElectroPolishing (EP) achieves high material removal rates but may not be consistent, ChemPolishing (CP) offers uniform smoothening. Nickel plating enhances additive manufacturing (AM) products’ resistance to wear and scratches and corrosion protection. To optimize nickel deposition, medium (6%–9%) and high (10%–13%) phosphorus nickel was tested using the L9 Taguchi design of experiments (DOE). Mechanical properties, including scratch resistance and adhesion, were evaluated using the TABER 5900 reciprocating (Taber Industries, North Tonawanda, NY, USA) abraser apparatus, a 5 N scratch test, and ASTM B-733 thermal shock method. Surface analysis was performed with the KEYENCE VHX-7000 microscope (Keyence Corporation, Itasca, IL, USA), and chemical composition before and after nickel deposition was assessed via the ThermoFisher Phenom XL scanning electron microscope (SEM, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Waltham, MA, USA) Optimal processing conditions, determined using Qualitek-4 software, Version 20.1.0 revealed improvements in both surface finish and mechanical robustness. This comprehensive analysis underscores the potential of nickel-coated additive manufacturing (AM) parts for enhanced performance, offering a pathway to more durable and efficient additive manufacturing (AM) applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Surface Functionalisation, 2nd Edition)
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20 pages, 6904 KB  
Article
In Vitro Corrosion Resistance and Mechanical Properties of Ag-SiO2-TiO2 Coatings Electrophoretically Deposited on NiTi Alloy
by Bożena Łosiewicz, Julian Kubisztal, Adrian Barylski and Karolina Dudek
Coatings 2025, 15(10), 1176; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15101176 - 8 Oct 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 784
Abstract
NiTi alloys are widely used in biomedical applications due to their shape memory and superelastic properties. However, their surface reactivity requires protective, biofunctional coatings. To enhance NiTi performance, its surface was modified with an Ag-SiO2-TiO2 nanocoating containing small amounts of [...] Read more.
NiTi alloys are widely used in biomedical applications due to their shape memory and superelastic properties. However, their surface reactivity requires protective, biofunctional coatings. To enhance NiTi performance, its surface was modified with an Ag-SiO2-TiO2 nanocoating containing small amounts of silica and silver. The coating’s primary phase was rutile with structural defects and a silver solid solution. It showed good adhesion, high scratch resistance, and improved corrosion behavior in Ringer’s solution, as demonstrated by EIS and cyclic polarization. EIS revealed high low-frequency impedance and two time constants, suggesting both barrier protection and slower electrochemical processes. Despite low breakdown and repassivation potentials, the coating effectively limited uniform corrosion. SEM/EDS confirmed localized degradation and partial substrate exposure, while elemental mapping showed well-dispersed silica and silver in a TiO2-rich matrix. The proposed pitting mechanism involves chloride-induced depassivation and galvanic effects. Surface potential mapping indicated electrostatic heterogeneity, mitigated by silica. The coating offers a balanced combination of corrosion protection and biofunctionality, supporting its potential for implant use. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Surface Functionalisation, 2nd Edition)
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17 pages, 15633 KB  
Article
Influence of Surface Sanding on the Coating Durability of Spruce as Facade Board
by Ondrej Dvořák, Monika Sarvašová Kvietková, Petr Horák, Markéta Kalábová, Chia-Feng Lin, Dennis Jones and Petr Ptáček
Coatings 2025, 15(10), 1133; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15101133 - 1 Oct 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1216
Abstract
Surface pretreatment significantly influences the hygroscopic behavior of wood, which in turn affects surface stability when exposed to variable climatic conditions. This study focuses on how different surface pretreatment methods impact the performance of protective coating applied on spruce wood (Picea abies [...] Read more.
Surface pretreatment significantly influences the hygroscopic behavior of wood, which in turn affects surface stability when exposed to variable climatic conditions. This study focuses on how different surface pretreatment methods impact the performance of protective coating applied on spruce wood (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) during one year of natural weathering. Samples were prepared using various surface treatments: milling and sanding with grit sizes P40, P80, and P120, respectively. Two types of coatings were applied: a solventborne coating (ADLER Pullex Plus-Lasur) and a waterborne coating (DColor FK 47 UV Protect). The samples were exposed for 12 months at an outdoor testing site in Suchdol, Czech. Surface properties were assessed through color changes in the CIE Lab* space, gloss measurements (ISO 2813), contact angle analysis, and visual inspection. The results showed that exposure to UV radiation and microbial activities led to the gradual degradation of the optical properties and aesthetic appearance of the wood. Surfaces with greater roughness preserved their aesthetic properties more effectively, indicating a higher absorption of the coating. Untreated wood exhibited low water repellency, while the coated surface demonstrated enhanced hydrophobicity. Notably, the waterborne coating showed a temporary increase in contact angle around the sixth month, indicating surface clogging by dust particles. In contrast, the solventborne coating had a rapid decrease in wettability during the first nine months. These findings suggested the importance of surface pretreatment and coating type in maintaining the long-term performance and aesthetic appearance for wood used in exterior conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Surface Functionalisation, 2nd Edition)
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26 pages, 10667 KB  
Article
Influence of Nitrogen and Hydrogen Addition on Composition, Morphology, Adhesion, and Wear Resistance of Amorphous Carbon Coatings Produced by RFCVD Method on Surface-Hardened Ultra-Fine Grained Bainitic 30HGSNA Steel
by Karol Wunsch, Tomasz Borowski, Emilia Skołek, Agata Roguska, Rafał Chodun, Michał Urbańczyk, Krzysztof Kulikowski, Maciej Spychalski, Andrzej Wieczorek and Jerzy Robert Sobiecki
Coatings 2025, 15(8), 877; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15080877 - 26 Jul 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3026
Abstract
Ultra-fine-grained bainitic (UFGB) steels offer excellent mechanical properties, which can be further improved by applying diamond-like carbon (DLC) coatings. However, poor adhesion between the coating and substrate remains a key limitation. Since the steel’s microstructure degrades at high temperatures, enhancing adhesion without heating [...] Read more.
Ultra-fine-grained bainitic (UFGB) steels offer excellent mechanical properties, which can be further improved by applying diamond-like carbon (DLC) coatings. However, poor adhesion between the coating and substrate remains a key limitation. Since the steel’s microstructure degrades at high temperatures, enhancing adhesion without heating the substrate is essential. This study investigates surface hardening combined with simultaneous nitrogen and hydrogen doping during the Radio Frequency Chemical Vapor Deposition (RFCVD) process to improve coating performance. Varying gas compositions were tested to assess their effects on coating properties. Nitrogen incorporation decreased hardness from 12 GPa to 9 GPa but improved adhesion, while hydrogen limited damage after coating failure. Optimizing the gas mixture led to enhanced adhesion and wear resistance. Raman and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses confirmed that the optimized coatings had the highest sp3 bond content and elevated nitrogen levels. While both hardness and adhesion contributed to wear resistance, no direct link to coating thickness was found. Overall, co-doping with nitrogen and hydrogen is an effective approach to improve adhesion and wear resistance without requiring high processing temperatures or complex equipment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Surface Functionalisation, 2nd Edition)
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11 pages, 3003 KB  
Article
Synthesis of a Hard Anodic Oxide Coating with a Structure Allowing for Its Modification by Nanoparticles
by Anna Kozik, Marek Nowak, Kamila Limanówka and Anna Góral
Coatings 2024, 14(11), 1416; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings14111416 - 7 Nov 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1717
Abstract
A hard anodic oxide coating’s characteristic porous structure allows for its modification by the incorporation of nanoparticles. However, achieving an appropriate microstructure requires an optimal pore arrangement and shape, which is influenced by the electrolyte composition, current densities, temperature, and processing time. To [...] Read more.
A hard anodic oxide coating’s characteristic porous structure allows for its modification by the incorporation of nanoparticles. However, achieving an appropriate microstructure requires an optimal pore arrangement and shape, which is influenced by the electrolyte composition, current densities, temperature, and processing time. To achieve pores with a diameter of about 50 nm and the most regular structure, a range of these parameters were tested. Using a two-stage manufacturing process had a beneficial effect on increasing the microporosity of the coating. The addition of phthalic acid at 0 °C did not increase the pore diameter, but allowed for the process to be carried out at higher temperatures. However, the coating produced at 20 °C had a larger pore diameter, but numerous defects. The coating obtained from the three-component solution had the most regular structure, but the smallest pore diameter. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Surface Functionalisation, 2nd Edition)
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