Research Paper: Investigating the Improvement of the Hydrophilicity of PP Polymer by Cold Atmospheric Surface Plasma

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Instructor, Institute for Plasma Research and Plasma Medicine, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran

2 M. Sc. Graduated, Institute for Plasma Research and Plasma Medicine, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran.

3 Professor, Institute for Plasma Research and Plasma Medicine, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran

4 Assistant Professor, Institute for Plasma Research and Plasma Medicine, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Today, the expansion of manufacturing knowledge and high consumption rates have led to increased attention on polymers. However, many polymers face challenges with colorability, as their surfaces often do not accept color well. This issue arises from the low surface energy of polymers, necessitating improvements in adhesion prior to printing. Polypropylene (PP), in particular, exhibits surface characteristics that require modification to enhance its hydrophilicity. This research aims to identify an effective method for altering the surface properties of this polymer. One promising approach is the use of surface dielectric barrier discharge plasma treatment, which can activate the PP surface more efficiently than conventional methods, making it more conducive to dyeing.When the polymer is exposed to a plasma environment, electrons, ions, free radicals, and other particles collide with the surface, activating it and enhancing its hydrophilic properties. As a result, the surface becomes better suited for bonding with colored materials. In this study, we demonstrate that surface plasma treatment effectively reduces the water contact angle and increases surface energy, transforming the polypropylene polymer into a hydrophilic material.

Keywords

Main Subjects


[1] Yosomiya, R., Adhesion and bonding in composites. CRC Press, 2020. https://doi.org/10.1201/9781003066309
[2] Liston, E.M., Martinu, L. and Wertheimer, M.R., "Plasma surface modification of polymers for improved adhesion: a critical review", Journal of adhesion science and technology 7(10), 1091-1127, 1993. https://doi.org/10.1163/156856193X00600
[3] Maddah, H.A.,  "Polypropylene as a promising plastic: A review", Am. J. Polym. Sci 6(1), 1-11, 2016. 10.5923/j.ajps.20160601.01
[4] Petasch, W.B.A.U.S., Räuchle, E., Walker, M.B.A.U.S. and Elsner, P.B.A.U.S.,  "Improvement of the adhesion of low-energy polymers by a short-time plasma treatment", Surface and Coatings Technology 74, 682-688, 1995. 10.1016/0257-8972(94)08209-X
[5] Primc, G. and Mozetič, M., "Surface Modification of Polymers by Plasma Treatment for Appropriate Adhesion of Coatings", Materials 17(7), 1494, 2024. https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17071494