Surface modification of ethylene tetrafluoroethylene via atmospheric pressure nitrogen plasma for enhanced wettability and adhesive bonding

This study investigates the impact of power density on the surface properties of ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) films treated with atmospheric pressure nitrogen plasma. Increasing power density consistently enhances the wettability of treated substrates. ATR-FTIR and XPS analyses reveal the formation of C=C bonds, C=CF 2 stretching vibrations, defluorination, and the introduction of oxygenated and nitrogenated functionalities. T-peel tests with acrylic adhesive tape show substantial increases in peel strength post-treatment, with higher power densities yielding more uniform modifications. Reducing polymer line speed further enhances peel strength. Long-term aging tests indicate minimal peel strength reduction after 340 days. The study emphasizes controlling plasma treatment parameters to optimize ETFE film bonding properties, benefiting diverse applications.