Several industries are turning to a powerful solution: plasma surface activation. This technology is safe since it boosts adhesion without the need for primers or harmful chemicals. Plasma activation uses the properties of ionized gas to make surfaces more bondable.
Explore how plasma activation is reshaping material science with precision, sustainability, and unmatched versatility.
What is Plasma Surface Activation?
Plasma Surface Activation is a high-tech process used to enhance the surface properties of various materials. This technological application makes materials more receptive to bonding, coating, or printing.
Plasma Activation involves exposing surfaces to a plasma state. The latter is often referred to as the fourth state of matter. To create plasma, a gas is energized to form a mix of ions, electrons, and reactive particles.
In a plasma surface activation, a surface is modified without altering the bulk properties of the material. With such a property, plasma surface activation is ideal for precision applications across industries. Automotive, aerospace, electronics, and medical devices to name a few.
How Does Plasma Activation Work?
This section answers the question, “What is activation process?” Here, it’s essential to grasp how plasma surface treatment interacts with the material surface.
Plasma activation works by bombarding the material with ionized particles. This interaction creates chemical and physical changes at the surface level. As these energized particles collide with the surface, they increase surface energy.
The increase in surface energy enhances the material’s ability to bond with adhesives, coatings, or inks. Because of its precision and eco-friendly nature, plasma activation has gained wide application in several industries.
Types of Plasmas Used in Surface Activation
Different plasma surface treatment techniques have been developed. Each tailors the adhesion properties based on specific materials and application requirements.
Dielectric Barrier Discharge (DBD)
Dielectric Barrier Discharge (DBD) plasma is an atmospheric pressure process. It generates plasma between two electrodes separated by a dielectric barrier. DBD plasma is primarily used in industries requiring continuous treatment of surfaces. These would include films or textiles.1
Piezoelectric Direct Discharge (PDD)
Piezoelectric Direct Discharge (PDD) plasma is a compact, low-temperature form of plasma surface treatment. Unlike DBD, PDD is directly generated at the point of use. This feature makes PDD portable and ideal for treating smaller surfaces or delicate materials. Due to its precision, PDD is commonly used in medical devices and electronics.2
Vacuum Plasma Activation
Vacuum Plasma Activation takes place in a low-pressure environment. This type of plasma activation leads to a highly uniform treatment. This technique is particularly useful for complex geometries. It also works well with materials sensitive to high temperatures.
Applications of Plasma Surface Activation
- Plasma Activation of Polymers
By increasing surface energy, plasma activation allows polymers to have enhanced adhesion. Once activated, polymers bind well with adhesives, coatings, and paints.
- Plasma Activation of Metals, Ceramics, and Glass
Plasma activation modifies these surfaces to accept coatings or adhesives. Thus, it contributes to improving product durability and performance.
- Plasma Activation of Powders
Plasma activation is increasingly used for the surface modification of powders. It is specifically essential in additive manufacturing and pharmaceuticals.
Partner with Keylink Technology for Your Plasma Treatment Needs Today
When it comes to advanced plasma activation systems, Keylink stands out as a premier innovator. For years, this company has provided both standard and customized plasma surface treatment solutions.
As a leading manufacturer, Keylink specializes in Atmospheric and Low-Pressure Plasma Systems. Now, with the capability to deliver over 2,000 pre-treatment systems annually, Keylink continues to empower customers with reliable, sustainable, and effective plasma solutions.
2. plasma Piezoelectric Direct Discharge: Devices and Applications; Dariusz Korzec, Florian Hoppenthaler, Stefan Nettesheim; 2020
