Smart and Functional Coatings

Today’s surface challenges are hardly redeemed by traditional coatings. Besides decoration or protection coatings shall bring additional features dependent on the substrate coated. Smart and Functional coatings have become well adopted in the market in recent years and are applied to a surface to improve its performance in terms of functionality, durability, aesthetics, and other properties. These coatings are widely used in a variety of industries, including automotive, aerospace, construction, electronics, medical devices, and consumer goods. The book describes a wide range of smart coatings such as photocatalytic, self-cleaning, self-healing, anti-microbial, low surface energy, optical, EMI-shielding, anti-corrosion and anti-icing coatings. It also covers nanotechnology which plays a key role in the development of Smart and Functional coatings as advancements in this field of technology allow for precise control over the size, shape, and composition of materials at the nanoscale level. Nanotechnology enables the incorporation of functional components, such as sensors or actuators, into coatings, which provide responsive behavior to external stimuli or impart a specific functionality. Furthermore, the use of nanotechnology in coatings can also lead to more sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions. For example, by using nanoscale particles, coatings can be made thinner, reducing the amount of material required and minimizing waste. Nanotechnology can also help develop coatings that are more efficient and durable, reducing the need for frequent maintenance or replacement.