Preserving the reactivity of coatings plasma deposited from oxazoline precursors − An in depth study

Plasma coatings deposited from oxazoline precursors have recently emerged as a valuable utility in many biotechnology application, however, their wider utilization by researchers and industry rely on their long term performance, and more specifically on the retention of their reactivity. Yet, plasma polymers are known to be susceptible to post-fabrication oxidation processes and intrinsic restructuration. Here, the aging of coatings deposited from oxazoline precursors was studied over 12 months via XPS, ToF-SIMS, and sessile drop contact angle analysis for samples stored under various conditions. The extent of the damages caused by light and oxygen are identified and explained. Storage away from ambient light and under vacuum proved to retain high reactivity toward COOH-bearing ligand and biomolecules even 12 months post deposition.