Modification of Polymer Surfaces by Plasma Treatment and Plasma Polymerization

Abstract

Plasma (partially ionized gas) can be utilized to alter the surface characteristics of polymers by (1) exposing a surface of polymer to non-polymer-forming plasma (e.g., O2, N2, H2O, Ar, He, etc.) or by (2) depositing very thin layer of plasma polymer on a surface of polymer. Both processes can produce significant changes on the surface properties of polymers and can contribute to the improvement of wear resistance of polymers, since many changes which can be related to the wear resistance of polymers generally start to take place at the polymer surface. Fundamental aspects of plasma treatment of polymers and plasma polymerization are reviewed.