Engineering

摘要

A new method is presented by which atmospheric plasma treatment is used as a way to modify the surfaces of polymer powder particles. Hydrophobic polymer powders, such as polypropylene (PP) and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), are treated to make the surfaces hydrophilic, while maintaining the bulk properties of the powder. The low temperature plasma treatment enables the particles to disperse in water and aqueous media. The method and apparatus is illustrated in the presentation, including variations in particle delivery components, operational conditions, and chemical solutions injected into the plasma as precursors for creating hydrophilic surface functional groups on the particles. Dispersions of treated polymer particles are presented and the dispersion stability is evaluated using light scattering and settling over time. Outcomes of the treatment are affected by operational conditions and precursor chemical.