Interactions between polymers and liquids during initiated chemical vapor deposition onto liquid substrates

Vapor phase deposition is typically used to apply thin films and coatings onto solid substrates. Deposition of materials onto liquid substrates provides complexity due to surface tension, viscosity, and solubility effects. Understanding the interactions between the deposited material and the liquid substrate can lead to the formation of materials with new structures and compositions. In this review, we will discuss the interactions associated with initiated chemical vapor deposition of polymers onto liquid substrates including silicone oils and ionic liquids. We will provide guidelines for selecting liquid properties to control the formation of polymer particles, films, and gels. We will conclude by discussing recent work on combining polymer and metal deposition to create hybrid organic/inorganic structures and actively moving the liquid during polymer deposition.