Rather than modifying the existing surface of a material, polymerizable gases can be used to create a "new" surface by plasma deposition of a nanolayer coating. Unlike standard plasma surface modification which can have shelf life limitations, thin film coatings are permanent. Coating thickness can vary by application, but is typically from ten to several hundred nanometers so component tolerance is not affected. Basic coating types with some examples include:

• Hydrophilic coatings on culture components for enhanced or selective cell attachment
• Hydrophobic or oleophobic treatment of pipette tips, membranes or seals
• Lubricious or reduced coefficient of friction for rubber stoppers to facilitate automatic feeding/handling or anti-stiction coatings on seals
• Primer or interface layer on metal or polymer to permit direct over molding or bonding
• Barrier (moisture, gas or corrosion) coatings on rubber to prevent material leaching or chemical, moisture or gas barrier on metals or polymers