The development of novel nanocoatings with superior diffusion barrier properties is highly relevant for packaging applications, protective encapsulation and anticorrosive coatings. Carbon-based materials are favorable candidates as they are atomically dense and show excellent tribological properties. However, their broader application is limited by the required fabrication processes that are expensive and difficult to scale to large areas and mass production. Anticorrosive coatings based on self-assembled monolayers can be processed from solution and used to tailor surface properties, but they typically offer inferior corrosion protection, wear resistance and gas permeability. The research project aimed to combine the respective advantages of both types of coatings and develop novel, atomically dense, functional carbon monolayer coatings with specific binding to the substrate (polymer films, metal oxides) and tailored surface properties. The preparation of reactive precursors bearing carboxylic acid or phosphonic acid head group was successfully achieved. Self-assembled monolayers of reactive carbon-rich surfactants were converted into carbon monolayer coatings by UV irradiation as indicated by UV-vis and contact angle measurement. The carbonized monolayer coatings were tested with regard to their diffusion barrier properties, and anticorrosive properties. Finally, the novel coatings will be tested on substrates used in commercial applications such as polymer films and inorganic (metal oxides) substrates.
