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327-0717-00L 4 Credits MSC D-ITET , D-MAVT , D-MATL
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Functional Surfaces

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. em. Dr. Nicholas Spencer, Prof. em. Dr. Hans Marcus Textor, Dr. Franz Marcus Morstein, Dr. Samuele Guido Pio Tosatti, Dr. Rupert Konradi, Dr. Jörg Patscheider, Dr. Géraldine Coullerez, Stefan Zürcher, Dr. Salvatore David Chessari
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:06:45

Abstract

This is an introductory course in the field of surface modifications and properties. The goal is to get acquainted with important techniques for the functionalization of surfaces on substrates ranging from metals to inorganic/ceramic materials to polymers. The course covers both the more traditional techniques and recently developed techniques that are primarily used in science and research.

Objective

This is an introductory course in the field of surface modifications and properties. The goal is that the students get acquainted with a number of important techniques for the functionalization of surfaces on substrates ranging from metals to inorganic/ceramic materials to polymers. The course covers both the more traditional techniques that are widely used today for industrial applications (e.g., automotive, machine, packaging, electronics industry) as well as more recently developed methods primarily used in research. An important teaching aspect is to discuss the surface functionalization techniques in the context of achieving a particular portfolio of physico-chemical and technical properties, which is characteristic for a given application. Functionalities are discussed in the context of important performance criteria ranging from tribology (friction and wear protection) and corrosion resistance, to adhesion of polymer coatings, to decorative aspects. Economical and ecological aspects are covered where appropriate. Bio-related surface modifications are not included in this course as there is the parallel, specialized course “Biomaterial Surfaces: Properties and Characterization”.

Content

Introduction Anodic Oxidation Electroplating Polymeric Coatings&Surfaces Chemical Plating Chemical Conversion Coatings Surface Modification of Biomaterials Thin organic films Polymer Surface Modifications and Paints Ultrathin organic films (such as self-assembled monolayers) Physical Vapour Deposition Chemical Vapour Deposition Nanocomposites and Diamond-like Coatings Thermal Spray Coatings Characterization techniques are introduced in the different chapters/topics Excursion to company and/or EMPA Dübendorf (depending on number of interested participants)

Resources

Lecture Notes

Script with ca. 250 pages and references, all presentation slides and additional material downloadable from:http://www.surface.mat.ethz.ch/education/courses/327-0717-00L

Literature

see: http://www.surface.mat.ethz.ch/education/courses/327-0717-00L

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
end-of-semester examination

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Functional Surfaces
  • Mon 13:45-15:30 (HCI J 8)
2 h weekly
exercise Functional Surfaces
  • Fri 13:45-15:30 (HCI E 2)
2 h weekly

Offered In