Etching the surface of polytetrafluoroethylene with glow discharge plasma to create a waterproofing material

The article considers the possibility of obtaining a hydro-and corrosion-resistant insulation material that protects against highly aggressive media. Methods of mechanical, chemical, ultraviolet and plasma etching of polytetrafluoroethylene surfaces to improve the adhesive properties and the possibility of applying an adhesive layer are presented. Plasma etching of the polytetrafluoroethylene surface in vacuum with a smoldering AC discharge was performed. The study of the edge wetting angle of PTFE films showed an increase in hydrophilicity as a result of plasma etching at the edge wetting angle =54-57°. Qualitative and quantitative analysis revealed changes in the content of atomic carbon (C), fluorine (F), and the appearance of oxygen (O) on the surface of polytetrafluoroethylene films after plasma etching. The surface of polytetrafluoroethylene films was studied using IR spectroscopy; new functional groups formed as a result of plasma etching (OH, C=O, C=C, CH2, CH3) were identified. A possible mechanism of plasma etching and the formation of new functional groups are presented.