Plasma polymerization is a procedure, in which gaseous monomers, stimulated through a plasma, condense on freely selectable substrates, as high cross-linked layers. Condition for this process is the presence of chain-producing atoms, such as carbon, silicium or sulfur, in the working gas. As the monomer molecules in plasma, for the most part, become shattered into reactive particles, there remain at most, only partially preserved chemical structures of the output gases in the product, which results in cross-linked and disordered structure (illustration). Structural preservation and cross-linking gradients can be controlled through process parameters, such as pressure, working gas-flow and applied electrical output; so that one can also construct so called gradient layers; i.e with increasing degree of crosslinking over the thickness.
Comparison of the
structures of plasma polymers and conventional polymers
Out of this origination mechanism
from plasma polymers there results special layer characteristics that are
qualified for a multitude of applications:
- excellent coating adhesion on almost all substrates
- chemical, mechanical and thermal stability
- high barrier effect
Applications from plasma
polymer coatings are as follows:
Further applications
are in preparation at IFAM.
Within the bounds of its function as service provider in technology transfer, IFAM offers its resources for the processing of the above-mentioned industrial questions up to series production. Our service comprises consultation, process development, sampling and industrial installation through pilot terotechnology.
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