an process of forming multilayer thin film heterostructures is disclosed and includes applying a solution including a first water - soluble polymer from the group of polyanionic species , polycationic species and uncharged polymer species onto a substrate to form a first coating layer on the substrate , drying the first coating layer on the substrate , applying a solution including a second water - soluble polymer from the group of polyanionic species , polycationic species and uncharged polymer species onto the substrate having the first coating layer to form a second coating layer on the first coating layer wherein the second water - soluble polymer is of a different material than the first water - soluble polymer , and drying the second coating layer on the first coating layer so as to form a bilayer structure on the substrate . optionally , one or more additional applying and drying sequences can be repeated with a water - soluble polymer from the group of polyanionic species , polycationic species and uncharged polymer species , so that a predetermined plurality of layers are built up upon the substrate .