1 Smart coatings are the coatings of the future. Smart functional coatings represent a niche market, but this market will become increasingly important because of the improved product demands customers have. Functional coatings that already have been developed are e.g. easy-to-clean, antimicrobial, scratch, wear-resistant and anti-fouling coatings. These coatings have a broad range of applications. Imagine an anti-fingerprint coating that keeps your smart phone perfectly clear, an anti-dirt coating for your car or the perfect anti-stick coating for your food bottles. Several spectacular movies on easy-to-clean and anti-stick coatings can be found online. These coatings are on the market, but ...