Synthesis and Characterization of Titanium Layer with Fiber-like Morphology on HDPE by Plasma Treatment

High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is widely used for different applications, but its low resistance to ultraviolet radiation, plastic deformation, chemical stability, and wear re-sistance limits its use in high-demand work environments. Modifying of the surface characteristics could improve the work efficiency of the parts exposed to an aggressive environment. Plasma treatments change the surface characteristics with deposition of a coating or by modifying the surface’s energy, varying the surface properties. This study presents the mechanical and tribological properties of a titanium (Ti) layer with fiber-like morphology produced on HDPE surfaces by plasma treatment involving plasma etching and the deposition of Ti atoms, through DC magnetron sputtering. On the HDPE substrates grew up Ti layer with fibers-like morphology with a diameter of 1.6 ± 0.44 μm. These fibers were elemental composed by 91.5 ± 0.9% Ti and 8.5 ± 0.6% O with α-Ti phase combined with HDPE crystalline structure. The Ti coating increased the hardness of the substrate and showed a good adhesion to HDPE surface. During the sliding test, the Ti layer with fiber-like morphology exhibited plastic deformation and debris accumulation, leading to the formation of a tribolayer without layer detachment. Notably, no detachment of the layer was observed, effectively protected the polymer surface, and enhanced its performance for tribological applications.