Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for forming a polymeric nanocoating on a substrate as well as substrates bearing the polymeric nanocoating. The method comprises exposing the substrate to a plasma comprising one or more unsaturated monomeric species for a period of time sufficient to allow the coating to form on the substrate. The one or more unsaturated monomeric species comprise (i) an aromatic moiety and (ii) a carbonyl moiety. The one or more unsaturated monomeric species also comprise a crosslinking reagent.