Molecular-Level Reinforced Adhesion Between Rubber and PTFE Film Treated by Atmospheric Plasma Polymerization

Abstract

Extremely strong reinforced adhesion between a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) film and butyl rubber is achieved using an atmospheric pressure plasma graft polymerization, involving argon and acrylic acid vapor. The treated PTFE film is then placed over a raw butyl rubber plate and hot-pressed under 157 N/cm2 for 40 min at 150 °C or for 10 min at 180 °C. This procedure results in molecular-level or chemical adhesion between the butyl rubber and the PTFE film. The 180° peeling test results show that a high peeling strength of 3.9 N, per 1 mm sample width, is achieved. Adherend failure of the rubber sheet occurs when the peeling is enforced. From X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis of the treated films, chemical bonds with fluorine atoms are absent from the surface. From scanning electron microscopy analysis, a transparent hydrophilic poly(acrylic acid) layer composed of nanoscale spherical particles is formed. This PTFE-rubber composite material is suitable for high-quality, prefilled medical syringe gaskets.