Zeta Potential of Photochemically Modified Polymer Surfaces

Zeta Potential of Photochemically Modified Polymer Surfaces 

Polymer Competence Center Leoben GmbH, A-8700 Leoben, Austria 

Institute for Chemistry and Technology of Organic Materials, Graz University of Technology, A-8010 Graz, Austria e-mail kem ictos.tugraz.at 

To reduce these effects, LDPE samples were cross-linked by e-beam irradiation and then subjected to the photosulfonation process. Compared to standard LDPE, crosslinked LDPE displayed a higher content of — SO3H groups and higher surface polarity after photosulfonation. This was evidenced both by zeta potential and contact angle measurements. It is thus demonstrated that sample pretreatment by crosslinking provides more stable surfaces which maintain their polar properties during water contact. This is explained by a lower amount of extractable components as a result of radiation-induced network formation. 

Keywords Contact angle Cross-linked LDPE Photosulfonation Polyethylene Surface modification Zeta potential 

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