6. Conclusion

The physico-chemical study of polymer surfaces is opening up many new perspectives. As far as physicochemistry is concerned, increasingly sophisticated analysis methods, such as synchrotron UV sources, provide structural information on the extreme surface. This knowledge needs to be set against the mechanical properties characterized by nanoindenters/nanorayers, the results of which, combined with numerical simulation, enable advanced exploitation.

In addition, numerous university teams and industrial laboratories are working on modifying polymer surfaces to :

• improve or reduce adhesion ;

• optimize their sensory appeal;

• minimize friction, wear and deposits on tools during the forming process.

One of the major themes...