Nanostructuring on polymer surfaces by magnetron plasma treatment

Stochastic nanostructured polymer surfaces exhibit superior properties like enhanced optical transmittance and soil-resistance as well as improved adhesion behavior. To adjust these properties, the surface chemistry and topography was modified by means of a roll-to-roll reactive dual magnetron plasma etching process. By applying an oxygen plasma treatment on both sides of an ETFE and PET web, the transmittance can be increased up to approximately 99% in visible wavelength range. The pre-treatment of a fluoropolymer substrate results in an increased adhesion of inorganic layers such as aluminum oxide. Both the parameter settings of the plasma process and the polymeric structure influence the surface chemistry and shape of the nanostructures. This poster provides a comparison of the formation of nanostructures on polymer surfaces in dependence of the polymeric web material and the process parameters web speed and plasma power. Additionally, the influence of process parameters on application relevant properties such as transmittance and weathering-resistance are demonstrated. Finally, the poster shows the structure formation on acrylic based varnishes that have been coated by a wire-bar applicator and cured by atmospheric pressure electron beam radiation. Consequently the structuring process could also be used on inorganic substrates like glass if coated with varnishes.