Surface modification of polymeric substrates with photo- and sonochemically designed macromolecular grafts

Abstract

Polymers such as elastomers, thermoplastics, or thermosets are functional materials employed in many fields and for diverse applications such as biomedical, separation science and technology, composites, power sources, and pollutant removal. However, in several applications, only surface modification is required while the bulk of the polymer matter is desired to remain as is in order to meet mechanical and chemical stability requirements. In this context, the present chapter aims at reviewing some eye-catchy strategies related to surface modification of natural and synthetic polymeric materials by surface-confined photo- and sonochemical polymerizations methods, termed as "grafting from" methods. We will therefore review the basic principles of the surface modification methods and detail the applications of selected systems.