Abstract: Multilayer coatings, articles comprising multilayer coatings, and methods of making and using thereof are described herein. The multilayer coating can contain two or more oppositely charged alternating layers, comprising at least one fixed layer comprising a first polymer and at least one inorganic layer comprising a plurality of particles, wherein the inorganic layer forms a surface of the two or more oppositely charged alternating layers. The multilayer coating can further contain an adhesion layer disposed on the at least one inorganic layer, the adhesion layer comprising a second polymer having a charge opposite that of the plurality of particles. The multilayer coating can also contain a functional layer disposed on the adhesion layer, wherein the functional layer forms a surface of the multilayer coating. In some embodiments, the coatings can separate a liquid mixture comprising a polar liquid and a non-polar liquid.

Abstract: The invention provides a coating which exhibits fast oleophobic-hydrophilic switching behaviour with, for example, equilibration of high oil contact angle (hexadecane=80°) and low water contact angle (<10°) values which occur within 10 s of droplet impact. These optically transparent surfaces display excellent anti-fogging and self-cleaning properties. The magnitude of oleophobic-hydrophilic switching can be further enhanced by the incorporation of surface roughness and in one embodiment the coating is applied to a surface in the form of a mesh in order to form an effective filter.