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Polymers
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Development of Polymer Materials as Functional Coatings
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Development of Polymer Materials as Functional Coatings

A special issue of Polymers (ISSN 2073-4360). This special issue belongs to the section "Polymer Membranes and Films".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 15 May 2025 | Viewed by 5596

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Beibei Jiang

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Kennesaw State University, Marietta, GA 30060, USA
Interests: solid-state Li-ion batteries; nanomaterials; ionic and electronic conductive polymer; flexible electronics; solid-state Li-ion batteries; energy storage and conversion
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Polymer materials stand out as the predominant choice for crafting functional coatings with exceptional properties. They play a pivotal role in enhancing the performance, longevity, and aesthetics of diverse materials and surfaces, including mechanical rigidity, durability, resistance (to chemicals, heat, UV light, etc.), and functionality (optical, electrical, magnetic, electrochemical, thermal, waterproofing, adhesive, etc.). They have found wide applications, encompassing abrasion- and scratch-resistance coatings, optical coatings, barrier coatings, corrosion-resistance coatings, antibacterial coatings, electrically conductive coatings, self-cleaning coatings (superhydrophilic and superhydrophobic), heat-resistance coatings, flame-retardant coatings, and more.

In this Special Issue, we welcome contributions that investigate the design and synthesis of innovative polymers and/or nanocomposites as coating materials, along with the exploration of new fabrication strategies to achieve optimal coatings. We also welcome the application of functional coatings in optical, electrical, electrochemical, mechanical devices, and many more.

Dr. BeiBei Jiang
Guest Editor

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 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

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. Polymers is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly 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 2700 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

  • polymer
  • nanocomposites
  • functional coating
  • coating strategies and methods

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Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

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12 pages, 4623 KiB  
Article
Large-Area Deposition of Hydrophobic Poly(hexafluorobutyl Acrylate) Thin Films on Wetting-Sensitive and Flexible Substrates via Plasma-Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition
by Kurtuluş Yılmaz, Mehmet Gürsoy and Mustafa Karaman
Polymers 2025, 17(6), 791; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17060791 - 17 Mar 2025
Viewed by 320
Abstract
In this study, hydrophobic poly(hexafluorobutyl acrylate) (PHFBA) thin films were successfully deposited over a large area of 25 × 50 cm using plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD). Key parameters, including plasma power and the distance between the plasma antenna and the substrate, were [...] Read more.
In this study, hydrophobic poly(hexafluorobutyl acrylate) (PHFBA) thin films were successfully deposited over a large area of 25 × 50 cm using plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD). Key parameters, including plasma power and the distance between the plasma antenna and the substrate, were optimized to achieve the highest deposition rate while ensuring uniformity and defect-free coatings. The optimal conditions were determined as 5 W plasma power and a 9 cm antenna–substrate distance, yielding a maximum deposition rate of 11.3 nm/min. PHFBA’s low fluorine content makes it a more environmentally and biologically friendly alternative compared to heavily fluorinated polymers, addressing concerns about toxicity and environmental impact. The coatings were applied to a flexible and wetting-sensitive paper towel substrate, which was successfully coated without any visible defects. The contact angle measurements confirmed the hydrophobic nature of the films, with a maximum water contact angle of 131.9° after the deposition of PHFBA. This study highlights the potential of PECVD as an efficient and scalable method for producing hydrophobic coatings, combining high-performance properties with improved environmental considerations. The results not only validate PECVD as a scalable and precise method for thin film fabrication but also open new possibilities for its use in applications requiring durable and functional surface modifications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development of Polymer Materials as Functional Coatings)
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15 pages, 4231 KiB  
Article
Microstructure and Release Behavior of Alginate–Natural Hydrocolloid Composites: A Comparative Study
by Hatice Sıçramaz, Ali Baran Dönmez, Buse Güven, Derya Ünal and Elif Aşbay
Polymers 2025, 17(4), 531; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17040531 - 18 Feb 2025
Viewed by 499
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of combining sodium alginate (ALG) with various natural hydrocolloids on the microstructure and release behaviors of microbeads. The encapsulation solutions were prepared at a 1:1 (w/w) ratio with ALG as the control and carrageenan [...] Read more.
This study investigated the effects of combining sodium alginate (ALG) with various natural hydrocolloids on the microstructure and release behaviors of microbeads. The encapsulation solutions were prepared at a 1:1 (w/w) ratio with ALG as the control and carrageenan (CAR), locust bean gum (LBG), acacia gum (ACA), pectin (PEC), and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) as experimental groups. Each formulation contained 0.2% (w/v) tartrazine and was extruded into a CaCl2 solution for bead production. Encapsulation efficiency varied across formulations, with the lowest in the control (ALG-ALG) and highest in ALG-CAR and ALG-CMC, reaching 74% and 78%, respectively. The microbead sizes ranged from 2.07 to 3.48 mm, with the lowest particle diameter observed in ALG-ACA composites. Surface analysis showed smooth and uniform microbeads in the control (ALG-ALG), while ALG-LBG microbeads were rougher. Release kinetics were assessed using various models, with the Higuchi model best describing the release for most formulations (highest R2 values). Tartrazine release followed pseudo-Fickian behavior in all formulations, with slower release in ALG-ACA and faster release in ALG-LBG microbeads. This study fills a gap in understanding how the incorporation of different natural hydrocolloids influences both the encapsulation efficiency and release dynamics of alginate-based microbeads, providing valuable insights for applications in food and pharmaceutical industries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development of Polymer Materials as Functional Coatings)
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23 pages, 5279 KiB  
Article
Synergistic Effects of Zn-Rich Layered Double Hydroxides on the Corrosion Resistance of PVDF-Based Coatings in Marine Environments
by Hissah A. Alqahtani, Jwaher M. AlGhamdi and Nuhu Dalhat Mu’azu
Polymers 2025, 17(3), 331; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17030331 - 25 Jan 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1098
Abstract
In this study, zinc–aluminum layered double hydroxide (ZLDH) and its calcined counterpart (CZLDH) were synthesized and incorporated into a poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) matrix to develop high-performance anti-corrosion coatings for mild steel substrates. The structural integrity, morphology, and dispersion of the LDH fillers were [...] Read more.
In this study, zinc–aluminum layered double hydroxide (ZLDH) and its calcined counterpart (CZLDH) were synthesized and incorporated into a poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) matrix to develop high-performance anti-corrosion coatings for mild steel substrates. The structural integrity, morphology, and dispersion of the LDH fillers were analyzed using FTIR, XRD, Raman spectroscopy, and SEM/EDS, while coating performance was evaluated through water contact angle (WCA), adhesion tests, and electrochemical techniques. Comparative electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization tests in a 3.5% NaCl solution revealed that the ZLDH/PVDF coating exhibited superior corrosion resistance and long-term stability compared to CZLDH/PVDF and pristine PVDF coatings. The intact lamellar structure of ZLDH promoted excellent dispersion within the polymer matrix, enhancing interfacial adhesion, reducing porosity, and effectively blocking chloride ion penetration. Conversely, calcination disrupted the lamellar structure of ZLDH, reducing its compatibility and adhesion performance within the PVDF matrix. This study demonstrates the critical role of ZLDH’s structural integrity in achieving enhanced adhesion, barrier properties, and corrosion protection, offering an effective anti-corrosion coating for marine applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development of Polymer Materials as Functional Coatings)
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22 pages, 5409 KiB  
Article
Improving CO2 Removal Efficiency with Bio-Cellulose Acetate: A Multi-Stage Membrane Separation Approach
by Attaso Khamwichit, Kamontip Wongsuwan and Wipawee Dechapanya
Polymers 2025, 17(2), 224; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17020224 - 17 Jan 2025
Viewed by 870
Abstract
In this comprehensive investigation, the sustainable production and utilization of gas separation membranes derived from coconut water (CW) waste was investigated. The research focuses on the synthesis of bacterial cellulose (BC) and cellulose acetate (CA) membranes from CW, followed by a thorough analysis [...] Read more.
In this comprehensive investigation, the sustainable production and utilization of gas separation membranes derived from coconut water (CW) waste was investigated. The research focuses on the synthesis of bacterial cellulose (BC) and cellulose acetate (CA) membranes from CW, followed by a thorough analysis of their characteristics, including morphology, ATR-FTIR spectroscopy, tensile strength, and chemical composition. The study rigorously evaluates membrane performance, with particular emphasis on CO2/CH4 selectivity under various operational conditions, including pressure, membrane thickness, and number of stages. The application of these membranes in gas separation units was optimized for CO2/CH4 separation performance and eco-efficiency through a multi-stage membrane approach. The findings indicate that in double-stage configurations, CA membranes with a thickness of 0.04 mm, operating at 0.28 MPa, achieve a CO2/CH4 selectivity of 35.52, significantly surpassing single-stage performance (selectivity: 19.72). Furthermore, eco-efficiency analysis reveals optimal performance at 0.04 mm thickness and 0.175 MPa, reaching 3.08 CO2/CH4 selectivity/THB. These results conclusively demonstrate the viability of converting agricultural waste into high-performance gas separation membranes, representing a significant advancement in sustainable membrane technology. This research contributes valuable insights to the field and paves the way for further innovations in eco-friendly membrane production and application. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development of Polymer Materials as Functional Coatings)
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Review

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33 pages, 5113 KiB  
Review
Nanoparticle-Doped Antibacterial and Antifungal Coatings
by Devyani Thapliyal, George D. Verros and Raj Kumar Arya
Polymers 2025, 17(2), 247; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17020247 - 20 Jan 2025
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2070
Abstract
Antimicrobial polymeric coatings rely not only on their surface functionalities but also on nanoparticles (NPs). Antimicrobial coatings gain their properties from the addition of NPs into a polymeric matrix. NPs that have been used include metal-based NPs, metal oxide NPs, carbon-based nanomaterials, and [...] Read more.
Antimicrobial polymeric coatings rely not only on their surface functionalities but also on nanoparticles (NPs). Antimicrobial coatings gain their properties from the addition of NPs into a polymeric matrix. NPs that have been used include metal-based NPs, metal oxide NPs, carbon-based nanomaterials, and organic NPs. Copper NPs and silver NPs exhibit antibacterial and antifungal properties. So, when present in coatings, they will release metal ions with the combined effect of having bacteriostatic/bactericidal properties, preventing the growth of pathogens on surfaces covered by these nano-enhanced films. In addition, metal oxide NPs such as titanium dioxide NPs (TiO2 NPs) and zinc oxide NPs (ZnONPs) are used as NPs in antimicrobial polymeric coatings. Under UV irradiation, these NPs show photocatalytic properties that lead to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) when exposed to UV radiation. After various forms of nano-carbon materials were successfully developed over the past decade, they and their derivatives from graphite/nanotubes, and composite sheets have been receiving more attention because they share an extremely large surface area, excellent mechanical strength, etc. These NPs not only show the ability to cause oxidative stress but also have the ability to release antimicrobial chemicals under control, resulting in long-lasting antibacterial action. The effectiveness and life spans of the antifouling performance of a variety of polymeric materials have been improved by adding nano-sized particles to those coatings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development of Polymer Materials as Functional Coatings)
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