SMART COATINGS: A REVIEW OF RECENT ADVANCES

Abstract

The present work provides a comprehensive discussion on various factors that need to be considered when utilizing smart polymer coatings. The term "smart coating" refers to coatings that possess the ability to sense their environment and respond accordingly to external stimuli. Significant efforts have been made towards the development of multifunctional coatings capable of detecting corrosion, pressure, and temperature. We explored the application and limitations of self-healing principles in polymer coatings. Furthermore, this chapter delves into the extensive range of current approaches and technologies encompassing antibacterial polymer coatings and the utilization of low molecular weight antibacterial agents. Additionally, an overview is presented regarding a novel approach that incorporates diverse catalytic mechanisms for decontamination, which are employed in self-cleaning coatings. Lastly, the concentration and spectral distribution of optical sources can be effectively controlled through the implementation of optical components and filtering optical projection systems, which encompass filters, mirrors, lenses, and optical fibers.