Abstract: Systems and methods relate to applying a coating to a substrate. Coatings can be generated using layer-by-layer application techniques. Typically, application of a first aqueous solution is alternated with application of a second aqueous solution. Example first aqueous solutions include polyethyleneimine (PEI) and hydroxy-terminated poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS-OH). Example second aqueous solutions include silicate and PDMS-OH. In some instances, first aqueous solutions and/or second aqueous solutions additionally include methyl-terminated PDMS (PDMS-CH3).

Abstract: Surface-modified polymer compositions are provided. The surface-modified polymer compositions can include a polymer and a multifunctional linker. The surface-modified polymer compositions can include a polymer, a multifunctional linker, and a surface group. Aqueous-based processes can be used to fabricate the surface-modified polymer compositions.

Abstract: Surface-modified polymer compositions are provided. The surface-modified polymer compositions can include a polymer and a multifunctional linker. The surface-modified polymer compositions can include a polymer, a multifunctional linker, and a surface group. Aqueous-based processes can be used to fabricate the surface-modified polymer compositions.

Abstract: Methods for surface treatment of polyester substrates are described. Treatment methods include adherence of a polymer layer on a surface of the polyester so as to increase the hydrophilic properties of the surface. Polymers can be polyelectrolytes that are adsorbed at the surface or polymer brushes that are polymerized at the surface. Further surface functionalization can include the adherence of inorganic nanoparticles to the surface. The polyester substrates can be recycled polyester such as recycled polyethylene terephthalate that has been subjected to a partial saponification reaction during the recycling process.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of producing a surface with enhanced cell-adhesive properties comprising applying a stress to a polymeric matrix. The strained matrix is then modified by grafting a self-assembled monolayer onto the strained matrix, with the self-assembled monolayer comprising at least one exposed functional group. At least one cell-adhesive molecule can then be coupled to the at least one exposed functional group on the self-assembled monolayer to produce a surface with enhanced cell-adhesive properties.

Abstract: A method for forming a chemically patterned surface includes subjecting a surface of a substrate to a fluid including a component such that the component reacts with the surface to form a first distribution of the component on the surface. Thereafter, the surface is deformed along at least one axis such that the first distribution of the component is converted to a second distribution different from the first distribution. The second distribution is a gradient of the component.

Abstract: A method for forming a chemically patterned surface includes subjecting a surface of a substrate to a fluid including a component such that the component reacts with the surface to form a first distribution of the component on the surface. Thereafter, the surface is deformed along at least one axis such that the first distribution of the component is converted to a second distribution different from the first distribution. The second distribution is a gradient of the component.

Abstract: A method of depositing a functional group on a surface portion of an elastic substrate comprises the steps of:

Abstract: A method of depositing a functional group on a surface portion of an elastic substrate comprises the steps of: (a) stretching an elastic substrate having an initial surface portion to form an enlarged surface portion from the initial surface portion; then (b) conjugating a functional group on the enlarged surface portion; and then (c) releasing the substrate to form a reduced surface portion from the enlarged surface portion, with the reduced surface portion having an area less than the enlarged surface portion, and with the reduced surface portion having the functional group deposited therein at a greater density than the enlarged surface portion.