Surface modification of recycled polymers in comparison to virgin polymers using Ar/O ₂ plasma etching

Low-pressure plasma etching of a recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film is studied in comparison to virgin PET and polypropylene (PP) using capacitively coupled radio frequency (RF) reactor. Recycled polymers are distinguished by increased impurity content weakened mechanical properties, both affecting adhesion processes. Mild conditions have been selected maintain the material bulk properties polymers. The etch rates morphology polymer samples were thus determined at floating potential compared with RF electrode for varying argon/oxygen gas mixtures, duration, sample size. Thermoanalytical X-ray techniques used characterize before after treatment. Finally, adhesive-tape peel tests proved that excellent silver coatings can also be achieved on plasma-treated film.