Zwitterionic polymers with both cationic and anionic charged moieties on the same side chain display electroneutrality,which have attracted considerable attention due to their unique molecular structure and physicochemical properties.Zwitterionic polymers have a strong hydration capability,which can form a dense hydration layer on the surface of the material by binding water molecules,making it a good choice for the functionalization of coating materials and has potential application value in many fields.In this review,the categories of zwitterionic polymers and the preparation methods of polymeric coatings were firstly introduced,and then the application research of zwitterionic materials in marine antifouling,biomedicine and membrane separation technology was described.Finally,the development of zwitterionic polymeric coatings was summarized and prospected.