Fibre surface modifying finishes using plasma and radiation technologies

3 Fibre surface modifying finishes using plasma and radiation technologies 

This fibre and fabric modification is based on photophysical and photochemical processes induced by exposure to plasma gases. Reactive gases are used to create chemical fibre surface modifications such as repellency of water, oil and soil and higher fibre resistance against aggressive chemicals. These modifications are mainly restricted to the fibre surface to avoid damaging the fibre bulk, for example 

A useful side effect of the radiation and especially the plasma treatments is the cleaning of the fibre surface. Fibre lubricants, sizing agents, soil and other residuals are burned off This provides, combined with the creation of reactive radicals on the fibre surface, better wetting properties and a higher adhesion of coatings and laminations. Anti-felting finishes for wool are also achievable with plasma treatments. 

---