Anti-stiction coatings are used to prevent surfaces from sticking together during manufacturing and operation. These coatings are essential for processes like hot-embossing, where they help maintain the integrity of microstructural details.

This method involves attaching specific biomolecules, such as antibodies or nucleic acids, to the device surface to target and capture analytes within a sample. It's particularly valuable in diagnostics, enabling highly specific interactions for accurate detection.

These coatings adjust the wettability of surfaces to control liquid flow within microfluidic devices. Hydrophilic coatings promote fluid spread and absorption, while hydrophobic coatings repel liquids, useful in applications requiring precise fluid management.

Complementary chemistry involves modifying surfaces with reactive chemical groups that can bond at lower temperatures. This technique is ideal for assembling devices that contain heat-sensitive components or require the integration of dissimilar materials.

Passivating coatings are applied to make surfaces inert, preventing undesired interactions between the substrate and sample molecules. This technique is crucial in reducing nonspecific binding that can lead to false diagnostic readings.