Medical Applications for Biocompatible Surfaces and Coatings

Surface chemistry has a major influence on the biocompatibility of materials, and applying a suitable coating can provide a cost-effective way to ensure the compatibility of medical devices and biomaterials without compromising their physical properties. Biocompatible coatings mimic naturally occurring coatings but may offer additional functionalities, such as lubrication, resistance to abrasion, or bacterial inhibition. This book explores various approaches to designing and developing biocompatible coatings and the range of applications they offer. The editors have brought together a wealth of expertise, providing, for the first time, a comprehensive volume addressing the current needs in medicine. Consideration is given to the next generation of coating systems and industry case studies are also presented.