disclosed is a method for modifying the surface properties of a silicone or siloxane - based polymer or copolymer substrate comprising , exposing the surface to a basic aqueous resolution comprising a substance capable of graft - polymerization with the silicone or siloxane - based polymer or copolymer substrate , the aqueous solution having a ph above about 8 . 0 , the exposure to the basic aqueous solution being for a time sufficient to enhance the graft - polymerization and subjecting the surface and basic solution to conditions whereby the polymerizable substance is polymerized to form a graft - polymerized coating on the surface . also disclosed are compositions of matter prepared by the above - described process as well as articles manufactured therefrom .