The Polymer Society of Korea

Abstract

We developed functionalized zwitterionic copolymers with epoxy and aldehyde groups for stable covalent bonding on multiple material surfaces. Poly(GMA-co-SBMA) (PGSM) and poly(GMA-co-SBAA) (PGSA) were synthesized via free radical polymerization, enabling durable modification of chemically inert substrates such as nitrile butadiene rubber, polyamide (PA), polyurethane (PU), and biosensor platforms. To improve process efficiency, we introduced a one-step acid-catalyzed method that directly activates PA and PU surfaces, eliminating the need for conventional two-step pretreatment. This simplified process maintained excellent coating stability and antifouling performance, achieving up to 95% reduction in protein adsorption, substantial improvement in blood compatibility, and over 98% reduction in E. coli attachment. Applied to biosensors, PGSA coatings reduced nonspecific binding, enhancing stability and signal-to-noise ratio. The method offers an industrially viable strategy for engineering biocompatible, antifouling surfaces in textiles, medical devices, and biosensors.