Surface Modification Research Articles

Surface Modification of Bioactive Glasses by Femtosecond and CO2 Lasers

This study explores the potential of laser surface modification (LSM) to enhance the biological properties of melt-derived bioactive glasses, specifically 45S5 and ICIE16, which are key in medical implants due to their bone-regenerating capabilities. Despite their bioactivity, these materials have limitations in cellular adhesion due to their smooth surfaces. LSM enables the creation of precise surface patterns that could improve interactions with biological environments. This study involved surface texturing bioactive glass (BG) samples using CO2 and femtosecond (fs) laser systems, modifying the laser average power, scanning speed, line spacing, and number of passes. Characterization methods included optical and stereoscopic microscopy, profilometry, and solubility tests in Tris-HCl buffer to evaluate surface roughness evolution, morphology, and bioactive behavior. The findings demonstrated significant modifications in surface properties post-texturing. The CO2 laser-treated surfaces preserve the increased roughness values after 75 days of immersion in Tris-HCl buffer for both 45S5 and ICIE16 melt-quenched bioactive glasses, showing a potential long-term osteoconductivity enhancement. On the contrary, the femtosecond laser-treated surfaces revealed a preferential apatite precipitation ability at the pattern grooves. Femtosecond laser modification stands as a suitable technique to provide preferential osteoconductivity characteristics when conducted on the surface of bioactive glass with moderate reactivity, such as ICIE16 bioactive glass.

Awafung Emmanuel Adie

The exploration of electrospun nanofibers has gained significant attention in wound healing due to their unique structural properties and potential to enhance therapeutic efficacy. This review examines the development and application of electrospun nanofibers, focusing on their antibacterial properties and biocompatibility, which are essential for effective wound management. Electrospinning techniques enable the production of nanofibers with high surface-area-to-volume ratios, tunable porosity, and controlled release profiles of therapeutic agents, making them ideal for wound dressings. We explore various biopolymers and synthetic polymers used in electrospun nanofiber fabrication, emphasizing their contributions to antibacterial effects and biocompatibility. The incorporation of antimicrobial agents, such as silver nanoparticles and essential oils, enhances infection prevention and promotes healing. Additionally, challenges related to the scalability of electrospinning processes and the need for standardized evaluation methods are discussed. The review also highlights the influence of nanofiber architecture such as fiber diameter, alignment, and surface modifications on cellular response and tissue integration. The findings underscore the potential of electrospun nanofibers to not only serve as passive wound dressings but also actively facilitate healing through antibacterial action and favorable biological interactions. Future research should focus on optimizing fabrication techniques, enhancing functional properties, and conducting in vivo studies to fully realize the clinical potential of these materials in wound care applications. Keywords: Electrospun, nanofibers, wound healing, antibacterial and biocompatibility

PLGA-Based Strategies for Intranasal and Pulmonary Applications

Poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) has emerged as a cornerstone in the development of advanced drug delivery systems, particularly for intranasal and pulmonary routes. Its biodegradability, biocompatibility, and adaptability make it an ideal platform for addressing challenges associated with conventional therapies. By enabling sustained and controlled drug release, PLGA formulations reduce dosing frequency, improve patient compliance, and enhance therapeutic efficacy. These systems demonstrate versatility, accommodating hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs, biological molecules, and co-delivery of synergistic agents. Moreover, surface modifications and advanced preparation techniques enhance targeting, bioavailability, and stability, expanding PLGA’s applications to treat complex diseases such as tuberculosis, cancer, pulmonary fibrosis, and CNS disorders. This manuscript provides an in-depth review of PLGA’s materials, properties, preparation methods, and therapeutic applications, alongside a critical evaluation of challenges and future opportunities in this field.

Effect of graphene oxide on hydration activity of spherical magnesium oxide

The spherical morphology of magnesium oxide (MgO) exhibits a high porosity and an extensive specific surface area, contributing to its significant hydration activity. These characteristics make it a valuable material across various applications in the construction industry. Graphene oxide (GO) is rich in functional groups, which have been increasingly utilized in recent years for the surface modification of various materials. In this study, spherical MgO was synthesized, and GO was applied to its surface using a wet mixing method to investigate the effects of GO on the hydration performance of MgO and to analyze the underlying mechanisms. The results indicate that within the range of 0.0% to 0.6% GO content, the hydration activity of MgO first decreases and then increases with increasing GO dosage. GO tends to adsorb onto the MgO surface during hydration, initially inhibiting early hydration reactions. However, when the GO content exceeds 0.3%, free GO in the system complexes with Mg2+ ions in the solution, which subsequently promotes the hydration of MgO.

Improved Antibacterial Properties of Additively Manufactured Ti–6Al–4V Surface Machined by Wire Electro‐Discharge Machining

Titanium alloys are the most demanded material type in implant applications. However, developing bacteria‐resistant implant characteristics is still in the progress of the research field. In this study, the performance of micro‐wire electro‐discharge machining (μ‐WEDM) surface modification technique on Ti–6Al–4V alloy is investigated. The performance parameters such as material removal rate, kerf width, surface roughness, and crater size are evaluated in terms of capacitance and gap‐voltage input parameters. In addition, the adhesion of bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Bacillus subtilis on treated surfaces is tested. Results show that the difference in discharge energy affects surface biofilm prevention performance. According to that, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Bacillus subtilis attach more on surfaces with 0.727 μm roughness which are machined with 10 nF and 100 V. Staphylococcus aureus attaches more on surfaces with 0.211 μm roughness machined with 1 nF and 90 V. Meanwhile, surface with 1.531 μm roughness, machined with 100 nF and 110 V, provides the least number of bacteria attached to the surface for all strains except Bacillus subtilis. In conclusion, this study found that μ‐WEDM surface treatment techniques can increase biofilm prevention properties of implant surfaces for different bacteria strains, within a certain range of discharge energy.

Selective Adsorption to Pathogenic Bacteria Augments Antibacterial Activity via Adjusting the Physicochemical Property of Nanoparticles

AbstractOral antibiotics are the primary method used to treat bacterial infections in clinical practice. However, the non‐selectivity of antibiotics reduces the efficacy of treatment while also tending to damage normal flora and cause dysbiosis. Obviously, it is crucial to enhance the selectivity of antibiotics against bacteria. It is possible to modulate the physicochemical properties of orally administered nanosystems to achieve selective adsorption to bacteria, thereby achieving improving bactericidal effects. A series of nanoparticles are examined bacterial adhesion characteristics focusing on five aspects: particle size, shape, charge, surface hydrophilicity, and surface modification. Selective adsorption of nanoparticles is investigated pathogenic bacteria (S. aureus as an example), normal bacteria (E. coli as an example), and probiotic bacteria (E. faecium as an example). The results show that ≈50 nm chitosan‐modified spherical Poly(lactide‐co‐glycolide) (PLGA) nanoparticles exhibit a stronger adsorption capacity for pathogenic bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus). After loading with amoxicillin, the antibacterial nanoparticles are able to destroy pathogenic bacteria without disrupting the normal intestinal bacterial flora and reducing the typical side effects of ecological disruption caused by broad‐spectrum antibiotics. Thus, this work presents a convenient and versatile strategy for targeting bacteria to enhance the antibacterial efficacy of current antibiotics.

Animal experimental study of 3D-printed titanium implants based on magnesium-zinc ion surface modification to promote oral soft-tissue closure

Animal experimental study of 3D-printed titanium implants based on magnesium-zinc ion surface modification to promote oral soft-tissue closure

Static and Fatigue Properties of Rhenium-Alloyed Inconel 718 Produced by Powder Bed Fusion Additive Manufacturing

Inconel 718 (In718) is the most widely used nickel-based alloy in additive manufacturing due to its favorable processability. However, In718’s high-temperature performance is not suited for the most demanding applications in the aerospace industry. Therefore, in this study, Inconel 718 powder was coated with 3% wt. rhenium (In718-Re) using AM’s in situ alloying capabilities to improve high-temperature properties. The proposed alloy’s mechanical performance was evaluated, focusing on the effects of post-process heat treatment and hot isostatic pressing following the laser-based powder bed fusion of metals (PBF-LB/M) processing. Static tensile tests conducted at room temperature and elevated temperatures (650 °C and 760 °C) demonstrated that the alloy has comparable strength to pure In718 according to ASTM F3055-14a—an ultimate tensile strength of 1247 MPa, yield strength of 909 MPa, and almost 2× higher elongation of 23.8%. Fatigue tests at room temperature indicated a fatigue limit below 400 MPa for 107 cycles. Fractographic analysis revealed that fatigue performance was primarily impacted by a lack of fusion defects inherent to the PBF-LB/M process, highlighting the need for optimized powder preparation and processing parameters to minimize defect formation. While rhenium addition shows limited benefits in Inconel 718, this study underscores the potential of in situ alloying through powder surface modification as a flexible method for incorporating high-melting-point elements into nickel-based alloys for tailored alloy design in additive manufacturing.

Analysis of the adhesion structure between the cycloolefin polymer and the copper seed layer formed using medium-vacuum sputtering

We have developed a novel approach for the fabrication of 6G communication antenna substrates by directly sputtering a copper seed layer onto a resin with low dielectric properties and low adhesiveness, without relying on a metal adhesion layer such as titanium. This study presents a detailed analysis of the effects of two surface modification methods—vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) irradiation and oxygen plasma treatment—performed before sputtering the copper seed layer on the interfacial structure between a cycloolefin polymer (COP) film and copper plating layer. Using scanning transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy, and selected area electron diffraction, we confirmed that both surface modification methods promote the formation of polycrystalline Cu2O at the interface between the COP film and the copper plating layer. VUV irradiation enhances the smoothness of the COP surface, resulting in the uniform distribution of hydrophilic functional groups. These functional groups stably interact with the sputtered copper, leading to the oxidation of copper during annealing and the formation of a consistent Cu2O layer. In contrast, oxygen plasma treatment selectively etches regions of the COP surface with high oxygen affinity, creating fine structures and concentrating the hydrophilic functional groups in the recessed areas. After sputtering, copper interacts with these localized functional groups, and during annealing, limited diffusion causes the copper to oxidize and aggregates into a Cu2O particle structure. Thus, this study demonstrates that the structures of polycrystalline Cu2O formed at the interface vary depending on the surface modification methods and elucidates the mechanisms behind these differences through analysis of surface morphology and the distribution of functional groups induced by each method.

New insights in large-pores mesoporous silica microspheres for hemostatic application

Hemorrhages are still considered a common cause of death and despite the availability of different hemostatic agents it is still necessary to develop more effective hemostats for bleeding managements in emergency situations. Herein, large-pores mesoporous silica microspheres (MSM) were synthesized, and their surface was modified to enrich the hydroxyls population with the aim of achieving a material with enhanced water adsorption capacity and high hemostatic ability. The success of surface modification was investigated by Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), which confirmed the increase in the amount of surface hydroxyl groups. A hemolysis assay as well as a clotting test were carried out to evaluate the hemocompatibility and hemostatic ability, respectively. It was found that the modified material presented the lowest hemolytic ratio and the lowest clotting time. The novelty of the paper is mainly due to the coupling of the hemostatic ability test with the adsorption microcalorimetry of water. In fact, being the water adsorption on the material surface a crucial factor in the hemostatic activity, microcalorimetry was used for the first time to study the adsorption of water and estimate its heat of adsorption. The data obtained showed that the modified MSM presents a surface able to adsorb a higher amount of water, compared to the pristine MSM, with a low molar heat of adsorption (about 35 kJ/mol), which renders the modified MSM presented in the present study an excellent candidate for producing novel hemostats.Graphical

Microfluidics-Assembled Nanovesicles for Nucleic Acid Delivery.

ConspectusMicrofluidic technologies have become a highly effective platform for the precise and reproducible production of nanovesicles used in drug and nucleic acid delivery. One of their key advantages lies in the one-step assembly of multidrug delivery nanovesicles, which improves batch-to-batch reproducibility by minimizing the intermediate steps typically required in conventional methods. These steps often involve complex hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions, leading to variability in the nanovesicle composition and performance. Microfluidic systems streamline the encapsulation of diverse therapeutic agents, including hydrophilic nucleic acids, proteins, and both hydrophobic and hydrophilic small molecules, within a single chip, ensuring a more consistent production process. This capability enables the codelivery of multiple drugs targeting different disease pathways, which is particularly valuable in reducing the risk of drug resistance.Despite the promise of nanovesicles for nucleic acid delivery, their clinical translation has been hindered by safety concerns, particularly cytotoxicity, which has overshadowed efforts to improve in vivo stability and delivery efficiency. Positively charged nanovesicles, commonly used to encapsulate negatively charged nucleic acids, tend to exhibit significant cytotoxicity. To address this, charge-shifting materials that respond to pH changes or surface modifications have been proposed as promising strategies. Shifting the surface charge from positive to neutral or negative at physiological pH can reduce the cytotoxicity, enhancing the clinical feasibility of these nanovesicle-based therapies.Microfluidic platforms offer precise control over key nanovesicle properties, including particle size, rigidity, morphology, and encapsulation efficiency. Particle size is relatively easy to adjust by controlling flow rates within microfluidic channels, with higher flow rates generally producing smaller particles. However, continuous tuning of the particle rigidity remains challenging. By manipulation of the interfacial water layer between hydrophobic and amphiphilic components during nanoparticle formation, future designs may achieve greater control over rigidity, which is critical for improving cellular uptake and biodistribution. While shape tuning using microfluidic chips has not yet been fully explored in biomedical applications, advances in materials science may enable this aspect in the future, offering further customization of the nanovesicle properties.The integration of nanovesicle assembly and surface modification within a single microfluidic platform presents challenges due to the differing speeds of these processes. Nanovesicle assembly is typically rapid, whereas surface modifications, such as those involving functional biomolecules, occur more slowly and often require purification steps. Recent advances, such as rotary valve designs and single-axis camshaft mechanisms, offer precise control over flow mixing at different stages of the process, allowing for the automation of nanovesicle assembly and surface modification, thereby improving batch-to-batch reproducibility.In conclusion, microfluidic technologies represent a promising approach for the development of multifunctional nanovesicles with the potential to address key challenges in drug delivery and precision medicine. While obstacles related to cytotoxicity, scalability, and reproducibility remain, innovations in chip design, materials, and automation are paving the way for broader application in clinical settings. Future research, potentially incorporating machine learning, could further optimize the relationship between nanovesicle properties and biological outcomes, advancing the use of microfluidic technologies for therapeutic delivery.

Research on Laser Direct Transmission Welding of Transparent Polystyrene and Polycarbonate Based on Laser Surface Modification

The conventional near-infrared laser transmission welding (LTW) process for joining dissimilar transparent polymers is limited by the need to incorporate optical absorbents, which compromises joint performance and raises biocompatibility concerns. To address these issues, this study proposed a surface modification technique using femtosecond laser ablation prior to the welding process. Experiments involved 520 nm femtosecond laser ablation of transparent polymers, followed by LTW of dissimilar transparent polymers using an 808 nm laser, with subsequent characterization and mechanical property evaluations. A maximum joint strength of 13.65 MPa was achieved. A comprehensive investigation was conducted into the physical and chemical mechanisms through which laser ablation improved the welding performance of dissimilar transparent polymers. The results demonstrated that laser ablation generated microstructures that serve as substitutes for optical absorbents while also facilitating the formation of numerous oxygen-containing functional groups. These enhancements improve miscibility and bonding performance between dissimilar polymers, enabling absorbent-free welding between ablated polycarbonate (PC) and polystyrene (PS). This work confirms both the feasibility and potential application of this process for direct LTW of dissimilar transparent polymers.

Electrochemical Hydrogen Evolution with Metal-Organic Framework-Derived Catalysts: Strategies for d-Band Modulation by Electronic Structure Modification.

The effective use of metal-organic framework (MOF)-based materials in the electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) relies on the understanding of their structural and electronic properties. While the structure and morphology of MOF-derived catalysts significantly impact HER activity, tuning the d-band structure through electronic structure modulation has emerged as a key factor in optimizing catalytic performance. Techniques such as composition tuning, heteroatom doping, surface modification, and interface engineering were found to be effective methods for manipulating the electronic configuration and, in turn, modulating the d-band. This review systematically explores the design strategies for MOF-derived catalysts by focusing on electronic structure modulation. It provides a detailed discussion of the various methods - used to modulate the electronic structure. Furthermore, the review establishes the relationship between d-band tuning, Gibbs free energy, and electronic structure modulation, supported by both spectroscopic and theoretical evidences.

Spectroscopic Kinetic Insights into the Critical Role of Metal-Oxide Interfaces in Enhancing the Concentration of Surface-Reaching Photoexcited Charges.

Surface modification of semiconductors with noble metals has been shown to effectively tune their photocatalytic activity. However, the photoinduced charge transfer processes at the metal/semiconductor interface and their impact on the concentration of surface-reaching photoexcited charges remain subjects of ongoing debate. In this study, we used time-resolved spectroscopy and kinetic analysis to investigate the behavior of surface-reaching photoholes in metal-loaded TiO2 nanoparticles. Our results reveal that the concentration of surface-reaching photoholes (Ch+(surf)) is highly dependent upon the type of metal and the resulting metal-oxide interface. Among the noble metals studied (Pt, Au, and Ag), Pt loading led to the most significant increase in Ch+(surf), with a nearly 3-fold enhancement compared to pristine TiO2. This enhancement was attributed to the generation of more abundant Ti3+ defects at the metal-oxide interface, which serve as hole trap states, thereby accelerating interfacial charge transfer, improving charge separation, and enriching Ch+(surf). These findings underscore the critical role of the metal-oxide interface in enhancing surface-reaching photoexcited charges, offering valuable insights for the design of advanced materials for solar energy conversion.

Cathodoluminescence from Y2O3:Er3+: A metal oxide-based green nanophosphor for field emission displays

The degradation of Y2O3:Er3+ nanophosphors under cathodoluminescence (CL) was assessed for their suitability as a green phosphor for low-voltage field emission displays (FEDs). The Er3+-doped Y2O3 green nanophosphor was prepared using the solution combustion approach and characterized by x-ray powder diffraction (XRPD) and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. XRPD analysis indicated a single-phase cubic Y₂O₃ structure. Under UV excitation at 378 nm, the PL spectra showed a strong green emission corresponding to the 4S3/2 → 4I15/2 transition of the Er3+ ions. Green luminescence and degradation in Y2O3:Er3 nanophosphors were studied using a 2 kV, 3 μA electron beam in vacuum. Auger electron spectroscopy (AES) was used to analyze the surface chemical modification of nanophosphors after achieving a vacuum pressure of 2.6 × 10−8 Torr. The CL degradation of nanophosphors was investigated by simultaneously monitoring the CL and Auger electrons’ peak-to-peak heights with an electron dose of 932 C/cm2. The CL intensity was then correlated with surface modifications observed in the AES results. The CL spectra for different accelerating voltages (0.5–2 kV) and probe currents were also measured. A noticeable enhancement in CL intensity was detected in the powders as the accelerating voltage ranged from 0.5 to 2 kV, highlighting a crucial property for their potential application in FEDs. Under continuous low-voltage electron-beam bombardment, phosphors demonstrated outstanding resistance to degradation and maintained good color stability. These findings suggested that Y2O3:Er3+ nanophosphor is a promising candidate for green phosphors in field emission displays.

Influence of Laser-Induced Surface Modifications on the Fatigue Behavior of SMA Wire Actuators

Abstract Ultrashort pulse lasers are common tools for surface structuring and marking of components. However, even finest structures generated by ultrashort laser processes may affect the mechanical properties of components. In the present work, the effects of laser-induced surface modifications on the fatigue behavior of pickled nickel titanium shape memory wires are investigated. Ultrafast Bessel beams have been utilized to create small microstructure-covered grooves on a defined area on the wire’s shell surface. Subsequently, the wires underwent fatigue testing until failure. The impact of laser processing on fatigue behavior and the resulting fracture surfaces were examined using scanning electron microscopy. It was found that laser defects generated with low fluences have a negligible impact on fatigue lives, as microcracks, which may cause failure, typically initiate at other more severe types of surface defects. However, we identified certain laser scanning strategies and other conditions like increased fluences, which can affect wire surface regions to become prone to fatigue crack initiation, resulting in reduced service lives.

Improved Antifouling and Anticorrosion Performance of CeO2 Nanocoating Prepared by Mussel-Inspired Chemistry.

Biofouling, the accumulation of organisms on submerged surfaces, significantly impairs vessel performance and hinders maritime industry development. The development of effective coatings has become an efficient solution to this problem. Cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2NPs) were synthesized on dopamine-modified 5083 aluminum alloy (Al) surfaces by mussel-inspired chemistry. The CeO2NPs can be fully exposed to the coating surface using this method, and CeO2 nanocoating exhibited haloperoxidase-like activity. CeO2 nanocoatings have an excellent ability to inhibit the attachment of P. tricornutum, E. coli, and Bacillussp., and their numbers were reduced by 96.03%, 94.41%, and 88.44%, respectively. The outstanding antiadhesion capability of the coating was attributed to its potent antibacterial properties and quorum quenching effect. Furthermore, the CeO2 nanocoating demonstrated outstanding corrosion resistance, with an impedance modulus 46.9 times higher than that of the Al sample. This approach presents a sustainable and environmentally friendly surface modification model for enhancing the performance of antifouling and anticorrosion in aluminum materials.

Refractive-index sensing based on terahertz cavity-modal confinement of Bragg metal grating structure

Abstract Integrated sensing platforms, which possess active layers of local electric-field oscillation in the terahertz (THz) frequency, can sensitively detect analytes via electromagnetic (EM) wave guidance, resonance, and spatial confinement in the system of THz time-domain spectroscopy. A Bragg grating structure of periodically perforated metal slits (PPMSs) is presented here as an active layer to generate the local electric-field oscillation of metal-cavity EM wave resonance that is coupled from 0.1–1 THz metal surface waves along the wavelength-scaled segments of metal slabs. The cavity modal confinement property, which is characterized from device transmittance or loss spectra, leads to the distribution of the metal-cavity wave resonance over a 35-pitch length and a 0.1–0.2 mm metal thickness of PPMSs. These distribution dimensions of metal-cavity wave resonance represent the longitudinal and transverse confinement performances, respectively. The PPMS-THz waves specified by 2D spatial confinement can realize the functional integration of a dielectric superstrate component and a sample adsorbing layer to adjust the dispersion responsivity and concentration of analytes, respectively. A refractive-index sensing application of glucose is presented by this integrated scheme for refractive-index sensing in a molecular density range of 0–24 μg/mm2, a resolution density of 1.6 μg/mm2, and a trace density of 2.61 μg/mm2. The PPMS-based THz integrated sensing platform facilitates the developments of specific test papers and relevant molecular surface modification to target molecules.

Surface Modification of Additively Manufactured Ti6Al4V through In-Situ Nitrogen-Assisted Laser Surface Remelting

Abstract Laser surface remelting is a widely used method for surface modification of titanium and related alloys, particularly to enhance its workability in the biomedical industry through surface nitriding. The present work aims to develop the nitride surface over the LPBF-processed Ti6Al4V substrate by introducing the nitrogen environment in the build chamber during the remelting. The effects of different laser power and laser scan speeds were studied over the surface topography and elemental changes of the remelted surface. The result shows an increase in surface roughness with selective laser remelting, which could enhance cell proliferation or osseointegration, which is advantageous for biomedical applications.EDX results show a significant increase in nitrogen content in terms of weight percentage for the in-situ remelted surface. XRD phase analysis shows the presence of titanium(Ti) and aluminium(Al) nitride peaks, and X-ray Photon-electron Spectrometry (XPS) also indicates the formation of nitrogen bonds with Ti and Al, which were initially missing in the substrate. The results reported here confirm the nitride surface formation over the substrate due to the in-situ remelting under the nitrogen environment for the LPBF-processed Ti6Al4V, which could be used for improved biomedical applications.

Surface Nanostructure Fabrication by Initiated Chemical Vapor Deposition and Its Combined Technologies.

Initiated chemical vapor deposition (iCVD) is a versatile technique that enables the direct growth of nanostructures and surface modification of such structures. Unlike traditional CVD methods, iCVD operates under mild conditions, allowing for damage-free processing of delicate substrates. It can produce highly uniform polymer layers, with thicknesses ranging from over 15 μm to sub-10 nm, conformally coating intricate geometries. The broad range of polymer compositions achievable with iCVD offers precise control of surface chemistry. In this Viewpoint, we present iCVD's mechanisms and the principles for controlling the composition and morphology of deposited layers. We summarize various surface nanostructures including nanodomes, nanocones, nanowrinkles, nanoparticles, and nanoporous structures that are directly fabricated using iCVD. We also demonstrate the integration of iCVD with other advanced methods, such as photo, soft, and nanoimprint lithography; template-assisted growth; and thermal CVD, to leverage the advantages of multiple methods and overcome individual limitations in nanofabrication. Through these combined strategies, we show the iCVD's potential for creating multifunctional nanostructures with broad applications across engineering and biomedical fields.