Enhancement of Adhesion of Polymers by Plasma Treatment: A Critical Review

Abstract

The adhesion of polymers is a crucial factor that significantly influences the performance and durability of numerous products and materials across various industries. Among the techniques employed to enhance polymer adhesion, plasma treatment has emerged as a promising and versatile method. This critical review comprehensively explores the effects of plasma treatment on polymer surfaces and its influence on adhesion. The review begins with an overview of the fundamental principles of plasma treatment, discussing the various types of plasma sources, operating parameters, and their impacts on polymer surfaces. The unique characteristics of plasma, such as its ability to modify the chemical composition and morphology of polymer surfaces, are highlighted. Subsequently, the chapter delves into a detailed examination of the effects of plasma treatment on different types of polymers, including thermoplastics, thermosets, and elastomers. Here we consider a broad range of experimental studies and case examples to elucidate the mechanisms behind the adhesion improvement achieved by plasma treatment. The roles of plasma-induced functional groups, surface roughness, and increase in wettability in promoting adhesion are extensively discussed. The water contact angles of various plasma treated polymers are also reported. The review concludes by outlining future research directions and potential applications of plasma treatment for enhancing polymer adhesion. These include advancements in plasma technology, the combination of plasma treatment with other surface modification techniques, and the development of tailored plasma treatment protocols for specific polymer types. Overall, this critical review serves as a comprehensive and insightful resource for researchers, engineers, and industrial practitioners seeking to understand the mechanisms and applications of plasma treatment for improving the adhesion of polymers, ultimately contributing to the advancement of various industries, including automotive, aerospace, electronics, and healthcare. © 2025 Scrivener Publishing LLC.