4. Conclusion

Numerous prospects are opening up for studies into the mechanical and tribological properties of polymer surfaces, thanks to the use of nanoindenters/nanorayers, combined with digital simulation of these tests, enabling advanced exploitation of their results. In addition, numerous university teams and industrial laboratories are working on the modification of polymer surfaces, to reduce or increase adhesion to another material, to improve their scratch resistance, to eliminate deposits on tools during shaping processes by extrusion, injection...., to minimize friction and wear in mechanisms: gears, dry bearings... One of the important themes of future research will be the ageing resistance (to air, solvents, UV...) of these treatments. For this reason, this article can be used as a basis for reflection on the mechanical and tribological properties of polymer surfaces. Further information...