Improved adhesion of low-density polyethylene/EVA foams using different surface treatments

• Published in: Journal of adhesion science and technology 2002-01, Vol.16 (8), p.1073-1101
• Main Authors: Landete-Ruiz, María Dolores, Martínez-Díez, Juan A., Rodríguez-Pérez, Miguel Ángel, De Saja, José Antonio, Martín-Martínez, José Miguel
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Cellular; corona discharge; Exact sciences and technology; Forms of application and semi-finished materials; ldpe/eva blends; low-pressure oxygen plasma; Polymer industry, paints, wood; polyolefin foam; surface treatment; Technology of polymers; uv-ozone
• ISSN: 0169-4243; 1568-5616
• DOI: 10.1163/156856102760146174

The adhesion between a polyurethane (PU) adhesive and four foams containing different low-density polyethylene (LDPE)/ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) blends was improved by using different surface treatments. UV-ozone, corona discharge, and low-pressure oxygen plasma treatments for different times were used to increase the surface energy of the foams. The low-pressure oxygen plasma was the most successful surface treatment to promote the adhesion of the foams. A reduced length of treatment was needed to improve the adhesion of the foams containing higher EVA content. The surface treatments produced a noticeable decrease in contact angle values due mainly to the creation of different carbon-oxygen moieties and to the formation of cracks/heterogeneities on the foams surfaces. After oxygen plasma, removal of non-polar material from EVA surfaces allowed to expose acetate groups which are likely to be important for increasing the adhesion of the foams.