Development of super-hydrophobic PTFE and PET surfaces by means of plasma processes

In this work, Poly(tetrafluoroethylene) and Poly(ethylene terephtalate) substrates were modified by means of plasma techniques for the creation of super-hydrophobic surfaces. Both the materials were etched with an O2 plasma, thus increasing their surface roughness which was investigated by means of Atomic Force Microscopy analysis. Plasma etching of PTFE surfaces under appropriate conditions results in the creation of super-hydrophobic surfaces, as assessed by measurements of dynamic contact angles and sliding angles. Chemical modifications of the PTFE surfaces was investigated with Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy analysis. The realization of super-hydrophobic PET surfaces needs the deposition of a hydrophobic top coating, which was realized through an hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO) plasma. The thickness of this top layer was varied by changing the plasma deposition time and the effects on the hydrophobic performances of the modified PET were investigated. Micro-nano structures created by plasma on PTFE and PET surfaces were characterized and correlated with the wettability.