In view of the imminent restrictive regulations on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) by the European Union, it is necessary to search for less impactful materials for the hydrophobization of surfaces. Polysaccharides, and especially chitosan, are interesting alternative materials because they are easily filmable and modifiable in their functionality, as well as non-toxic and biodegradable.

Energy sustainability and interconnectivity are the two main pillars on which state-of-the-art architecture is based. They call for the realization of energy and smart devices that can be fully integrated into buildings, capable on the one hand of meeting stringent regulatory requirements, and on the other hand of operating under real-world conditions.