Functionalization of technical textile tapes

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of the study was to deposit a hydrophobic barrier coating on technical tapes in order to protect them from water and to test and assess the obtained products. Design/methodology/approach: The coatings were deposited on elastic, textile substrates using PACVD of hexamethyldisiloxane vapours with an RF commercial plasma system under reduced pressure. Findings: The coatings increased the hydrophobicity of the technical tapes, which was confirmed by high water contact angles and reduced water sorption by the tape. The polymerization of the monomer vapour plasma was achieved without carrier gas. With a relatively slow increase in the deposition, rough coatings were obtained on a submicroscopic level, as opposed to the commonly produced smooth ppHMDSO coatings. This rough character enhanced the hydrophobicity of the surface according to the Wetzel or Cassie models. The modification processes did not significantly affect the basic mechanical properties of the tapes, such as Young’s modulus and tensile strength. The ppHMDSO coatings are resistant to aging and mechanical wear and retain their hydrophobic barrier properties. Research limitations/implications: The quantitative assessment of the wettability of a substrate with a rough surface is difficult and often ambiguous. This element of physicochemical metrology is wide open for innovation. Practical implications: The use of this plasma technique to make textile barrier products shows several merits, such as an economically justifiable, pro-ecological and dry process. The hydrophobicity of the textile substrates can also be obtained using other monomers. Originality/value: The formation of local hierarchical structures on the top layer of the fabric surface enhance the hydrophobic effect.