Physio‐Chemical Modifications of Polystyrene and Poly(propylene) Surfaces by Electron Beam‐Generated Plasmas Produced in Argon

Pulsed, electron beam generated plasmas produced in argon were used to modify the surfaces of polystyrene and poly(propylene). The influence of plasma parameters including duty factor, plasma period and exposure time on the surface chemistry, energy and morphology was investigated. In these plasmas, the energy of ions striking the surfaces was modest (< 5 eV) and comparable to the bond strength of most polymers. Despite the lack of reactive species in the background, a substantial modification in the chemical composition of the polymer surface occurred, leading to a significant increase in surface energy. These changes occurred without a significant increase in surface roughness, or loss of material due to etching. Indeed, the surface morphology of polystyrene was practically unchanged, whereas the surface of poly(propylene) became smoother with plasma exposure. Based on theoretical estimations, the ions play major role in the modification of polymers.

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