New whitepaper on microfluidic chips available for download

Institute of Polymer Nanotechnology

Customized functional surfaces for innovative plastic products

We modify the surface of polymers to provide them with additional functionalities. This is achieved through structuring on the micro and nano scale, by chemical modification or application of coatings, whereby we create additional added value for your polymer products.

We are an interdisciplinary institute at the interface between polymer technology, materials science, mechanical engineering and nanotechnology. Together with partners from industry and academia, our broadly based team develops innovative solutions in the field of materials processes and applications for functional polymer surfaces. We work closely together with the the FHNW Institute of Polymer Engineering.

The quality and performance of the functionalized polymer surfaces are determined with the help of state-of-the-art surface analysis. If required, we also develop our own test methods for the validation of specific functionalities.

We offer our competences both in the context of applied research and development projects (publicly funded or directly financed) as well as in the form of services. Another possibility for cooperation are student projects.

In order to realize your projects in the best possible way, we draw on development partners from the different institutes of the FHNW as well as from our large network in academic institutions and industry.

Competencies

Surface texturing

Using micro- and nanostructures, we modify the properties of polymer surfaces without changing their composition.

Surface functionalization

We use different types of chemical modification of polymer surfaces and coating technologies to achieve tailored properties.

Surface analysis and material testing

For the characterization and analysis of modified polymer surfaces we use suitable methods within the scope of projects or services.

Efficient process chain for the realization of microfluidic chips

Revolutionise your microfluidics development: from idea to chip in weeks instead of months

From idea to chip in weeks instead of months

Discover in our exclusive whitepaper how injection-moulded microfluidic chips can be realised in just a few weeks.

Discover more

Selected projects

Production of a violin support with functional surfaces

Plastics experts at the FHNW University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland developed an injection-moulding production process for a violin ...

to Production of a violin support with functional surfaces

Multi-purpose functionalisation of non-woven materials by means of an e-grafting process

Researchers at the FHNW University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland are developing a non-woven material with an innovative combination of ...

to Multi-purpose functionalisation of non-woven materials by means of an e-grafting process

Tool concept development for large-scale microstructure moulding

Researchers at the FHNW University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland are helping Temicon to develop an industrial moulding tool.

to Tool concept development for large-scale microstructure moulding

Functional surfaces from UV LED cured coatings

In the problem lies the solution for better functional coatings.

to Functional surfaces from UV LED cured coatings

Competencies of our sister institute IKT

Polymer Chemistry and Analytics

We are experts in polymeric chemistry (thermoplastics, thermoset plastics and elastomers), chemical plastic modification and plastic-related analytics.

Polymer Processing and Sustainability

We conceive product and procedure innovations and develop them until they are ready for the market, focussing in particular on high-performance polymers and composites.