research Paper: Investigating the Improvement of the Hydrophilicity of PP Polymer by Cold Atmospheric Surface Plasma

Today, the expansion of manufacturing knowledge and high consumption rates have led to increased attention on polymers. However, many polymers face challenges with colorability, as their surfaces often do not accept color well. This issue arises from the low surface energy of polymers, necessitating improvements in adhesion prior to printing. Polypropylene (PP), in particular, exhibits surface characteristics that require modification to enhance its hydrophilicity. This research aims to identify an effective method for altering the surface properties of this polymer. One promising approach is the use of surface dielectric barrier discharge plasma treatment, which can activate the PP surface more efficiently than conventional methods, making it more conducive to dyeing.When the polymer is exposed to a plasma environment, electrons, ions, free radicals, and other particles collide with the surface, activating it and enhancing its hydrophilic properties. As a result, the surface becomes better suited for bonding with colored materials. In this study, we demonstrate that surface plasma treatment effectively reduces the water contact angle and increases surface energy, transforming the polypropylene polymer into a hydrophilic material.