Investigation of Wood and Timber Surface Modification by Dielectric Barrier Discharge at Atmospheric Pressure

Abstract

In this study, the influence of a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) at atmospheric pressure on wood plastic composites (WPC), particle board and fibre boards is investigated by means of contact angle measurements. The water contact angle (WCA) is determined and offers a possibility to detect changes of surface properties by plasma treatment. The surface energy divided into disperse and polar part is determined before and after plasma treatment. To estimate the adhesion, the work of adhesion between substrates and four different cured coatings is evaluated. It is shown that surface energy, primarily the polar part, is increased considerably by the plasma treatment. In addition, by the increased work of adhesion an enhanced adhesion is expected, which is confirmed by cross-cut tests.