Silicone nanolayers

Abstract

Silicones, also known as poly(siloxane)s, are widely used as coatings, since their low specific surface energies (typically around 20 mJ/m2) render these materials suited as water-repellant, anti-adhesion, or lubricant layers. For applications in the medical industry, the low toxicity of pure silicone grades is also of particular importance. It is, however, difficult to obtain coherent nanolayers of silicones on inorganic surfaces unless crosslinked silicones are used. However, the related application methods give raise to problems if very thin films are required, because of the poor adhesion between the silicones and the surfaces of inorganic materials such as titanium, steel, or ceramics, which are relevant as medical implants. In the following, we will present a novel patented reaction that easily allows to prepare ultrathin films of 2-5 nm thickness with linear, commercially available silicones on a a variety of surfaces