substráty

Substráty, or substrates, are materials or surfaces that provide support, a reactant, or a foundation for another process. They are used across science and engineering to host reactions, growth, or the deposition of films and patterns.

In chemistry and biochemistry, a substrate is the chemical species that undergoes a reaction, usually in the presence of a catalyst or enzyme. The substrate binds to an active site, and its transformation yields products. The choice of substrate influences reaction rate, selectivity, and yield.

In biology and materials science, substrates serve as surfaces on which cells grow or materials are deposited. In cell culture, common substrates include glass, treated plastics, or extracellular matrix proteins; surface properties such as roughness, charge, and stiffness affect adhesion and behavior.

In electronics and semiconductor manufacturing, substrates provide a flat base for lithography, deposition, and etching. Silicon wafers, sapphire, glass, and polymer films are typical substrates; they are characterized by purity, crystallinity, thermal stability, and surface finish. Substrate selection impacts device performance and reliability.

In horticulture and environmental science, substrates refer to the growth medium in which plants or microorganisms are cultivated, ranging from soil to inert media like perlite, rock wool, or coco coir. Properties such as porosity, pH, and water retention are critical for fertility and stability.