Atmospheric plasma treatment of rubber and its effect on surface characteristics

Abstract

The changes of rubber blend surface induced by atmospheric plasma at several conditions were studied via FTIR, SEM, contact angle and adhesion measurement. After plasma, the presence of OH, COO- bands of higher intensity was observed, whilst methylene groups reduced. A several formations of weaker agglomeration and cleaning of the surface was recognized. Also an intense decline of contact angles was observed. The plasma induced significantly greater changes at the 0.5 mm position, whereas emission times of 10 s and 30 s did not significantly affect the modifications of the investigated surface.