Abstract: The invention provides a functionalized compound of formula (II), which functionalized compound comprises n carbene precursor groups which are the same or different, wherein n is an integer equal to or greater than 3: wherein x is 1, E is a group which is capable of being converted into a carbene reactive intermediate group, Q is a core moiety, a polymer or a dendrimer, and each of the [R]x-E-L- groups, which are the same or different, is independently selected from a group of formula (Ie) and a group of formula (Ia): wherein L is a single bond or a linker group as defined herein, R is a terminal group as defined herein, and R1 is as defined herein. Further provided is the use of the functionalized compound as an agent for producing a chemically-bound three-dimensional network on or within a substrate.

Abstract: An optical coating, comprising porous particles, or formed from porous precursor particles. The average thickness of the coating is in the range of from 75 to 400 nm, and the surface roughness of the coating is in the range of from 2 to 300 nm. This coating provides broadband antireflective properties across the visible and near infrared part of the electromagnetic spectrum.

Abstract: The invention provides a functionalised compound of formula (II), which functionalised compound comprises n carbene precursor groups which are the same or different, wherein n is an integer equal to or greater than 3: wherein x is 1, E is a group which is capable of being converted into a carbene reactive intermediate group, Q is a core moiety, a polymer or a dendrimer, and each of the [R]x-E-L- groups, which are the same or different, is independently selected from a group of formula (Ie) and a group of formula (Ia): wherein L is a single bond or a linker group as defined herein, R is a terminal group as defined herein, and R1 is as defined herein. Further provided is the use of the functionalised compound as an agent for producing a chemically-bound three-dimensional network on or within a substrate.