Global Share of Scientific Publications Involving International Collaboration in Surfaces, Coatings and Films by Country

The data from 2023 reveals that Iceland leads among countries in the share of scientific publications in surfaces, coatings, and films involving international collaboration, achieving a rate of 84.35%. It is closely followed by Cyprus and the United Arab Emirates, with significant participation as well. In contrast, major scientific powerhouses like the United States, China, and India show much lower collaboration percentages, reflecting a potential preference for domestic research initiatives. Notably, this suggests a global north-south divide in collaborative tendencies.

Looking ahead, future trends to observe include the growing inclination of traditionally self-reliant scientific communities in larger countries to increase international collaborations. Factors such as globalization, increased mobility, and universal access to digital communication tools might catalyze this trend, potentially leveling the playing field between smaller and larger nations. Additionally, geopolitical shifts and international policies could further influence these collaborative networks.