SURFACE MODIFICATION OF POLYETHYLENE AND POLYPROPYLENE BY ION-IMPLANTATION

The creation of oxidized structures and double bonds in polyethylene ( PE) and polypropylene (PP) samples implanted with P+ ions was studied. The surface polarity and the electrical conductivity of the ion-impla nted polymers were also examined. As a result of the ion implantation, the polymer macromolecules are broken up and the material is degraded . An oxygen penetration into the radiation-damaged polymers is also ob served, with PE being more vulnerable to the oxidation. The ion-implan ted PP exhibits higher surface polarity and sheet conductivity compare d to that of PE. (C) 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.