Modification of polymeric surfaces with plasma and ion implantation

Abstract

The plasma treatment and plasma source ion implantation (PSII) of polymeric surfaces were conducted to study the effectivity of this surface treatment during storage. Polystyrene and polyethylene terephthalate samples were used and treated with both methods. The influence of low pressure plasma of oxygen, nitrogen, or argon on the chemical composition, topography, and wettability of polymer surfaces was investigated. It was proved that strong ion bombardment in combination with the attack of chemical species leads to more hydrophilic and oxygen containing surfaces and high etch rates. PSII-treated polystyrene showed more stable surface as a function of aging time.