Induced grafted polymerization of a carboxyl-rich poly(acrylic acid) layer on PTFE using helix atmospheric pressure plasma

Abstract This study explores the plasma-induced graft polymerization of poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) on polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) using a helix atmospheric pressure plasma system. While PTFE exhibits excellent chemical resistance and thermal stability, its hydrophobic surface and poor adhesion limit broader applications. Plasma pretreatment was employed to activate the PTFE surface, enhancing the grafting rate of PAA during subsequent immersion in an acrylic acid solution. The effects of plasma power on grafting efficiency and surface properties were systematically analyzed. Optical emission spectroscopy and infrared thermal imaging characterized the plasma, while contact angle measurements and an electronic microbalance assessed changes in wettability and graft density. Scanning electron microscopy, ATR-FTIR, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy revealed modifications in surface morphology and chemical composition. The results demonstrated improved hydrophilicity and adhesion of PTFE surfaces, with tunable characteristics achieved by optimizing plasma power, broadening PTFE’s applicability in diverse industrial fields.