Characterization, and Antifouling Behavior Surface-Grafted Polymer Coatings: Preparation

2015 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. This chapter discusses the methods of polymer surface-grafting, characterization of such modified surfaces, and utility of surface-grafted polymer coatings for antifouling applications. Grafting may be further classified according to the nature of the grafting strategy as either grafting-from or grafting-to. Graft-from and graft-to methods may be utilized to prepare surface-grafted polymers. There are many useful surface analysis techniques for characterizing surface-grafted polymers. The chapter discusses some common techniques, including how they are used and their advantages and limitations. Some of the common techniques include ellipsometry, contact angle, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and scanning probe microscopies. Surface-grafted poly (ethylene glycol) (PEG) has been widely studied for its resistance to biofouling. To enhance this behavior, PEG-silane amphiphiles in which the PEG segment is distanced from the grafting group by a flexible siloxane tether have been prepared.

Surface-Grafted Polymer Coatings: Preparation, Characterization, and Antifouling Behavior Chapter