Plasma Technology for Surface Modification

a fifteen minute introduction

Thierry Corporation

Plasma Science and Technology George Osenga

Topics of Discussion

• Plasma definition, an introduction

• Surfaces, an introduction

• Plasma surface, modification defined

• Plasma applications for manufacturing

• Conclusions

Plasma Definition Introduction

• Plasma is a (partially) ionized gas in which ions, electrons, and photons are present as well as radicals and molecules in an excited state

Plasma Definition Introduction

• Plasma is a (partially) ionized gas in which ions, electrons, and photons are present as well as radicals and molecules in an excited state

• GASES GONE WILD

Plasma Definition Introduction

• Currently in industry we use two types of plasma.

– Plasma generated in a vacuum or low pressure plasma

– Plasma generated at near atmospheric pressure

Plasma Definition Introduction

• Plasma is also defined by the gas or gases used to make up the plasma

• Common gases used in generating plasma in manufacturing today are: oxygen, argon, nitrogen, hydrogen, sulfur hexafluoride and many more

Plasma Definition Introduction

• Cold plasma discharges are generated by passing enough electrical current through a gas to cause the gas to change state

• This electrical current often defines the process to generate the type of plasma: radio frequency, microwave, inductively coupled, and pulsed direct current

Introduction to Surfaces

• Surfaces commonly found in manufacturing that are plasma treated are defined by their composition

• Examples of common materials: metals, plastics, rubber, elastomers, polymers, glass, ceramics, powders and liquids

Introduction to Surfaces

• There are virtually no size or shape limitations when it comes to plasma processing

• Plasma systems are built to process something as small as a contact lens or as large as an aircraft wing

• Plasma conforms to the shape of the articles or items it surrounds

Introduction to Surfaces

• Surfaces can also be treated when moving

• Surfaces are treated during in-line process

• Surfaces are treated when tumbled

• Surfaces are treated in roll to roll

• Surfaces like powders or liquids

Plasma Applicationsfor Manufacturing

• Plasma Clean

• Plasma Activate

• Plasma Etch

• Plasma Deposition/Coating

Plasma Applicationsfor Manufacturing

Plasma CleanInorganic Compounds

- oils, mold release, polymer bleed, drill smear, fingerprints, solder flux, carbon ash

Inorganic

- metal oxides, metal oxide reduction

Decontamination

- extracellular debris, pyrogens, proteins, DNA, RNA

Plasma Applicationsfor Manufacturing

Plasma Activate

• Surface Activation – THE MOST COMMON

(raise the surface energy)

• Surface Passivation

Plasma Applicationsfor Manufacturing

Plasma Etch

• Chemical Etch

• Physical Etch

Plasma Applicationsfor Manufacturing

Plasma Deposition/Coating

Hydrophobic (does not like water)

- Fabrics, Footwear, Electronics, Medical Devices

Hydrophilic (likes water)

- Fabrics, Contact Lenses, Medical Devices

Oleophobic (does not like oil)

- Electronics, Optics, Marine Products

Conclusions

• Plasma processing in manufacturing is: safe, clean, and cost effective

• Plasma equipment and technical experts are available

• Plasma processing increases: quality, productivity, and profit

Topics Discussed

• Plasma definition, an introduction

• Surfaces, an introduction

• Plasma surface, modification defined

• Plasma applications for manufacturing

• Conclusions

Thierry CorporationPlasma Science and Technology

George OsengaDirector of Operations

North America, Mexico & Canada george.osenga@thierry-corp.com

Phone: (248)-549-4581