Atmospheric Plasma

Gas Ionization

Electrical discharge through a gas stream generates reactive species without requiring a vacuum chamber. Helium, nitrogen, or compressed air is passed through a high-frequency electrode gap to create a stable, non-equilibrium discharge. This discharge produces a mix of ions, electrons, and excited molecules that interact with the moving polymer web.

The process relies on these active species to break carbon-carbon bonds on the surface, replacing them with oxygen-containing groups that promote chemical bonding.

Treatment Decay

Coated or treated surfaces experience a loss of adhesion capability over time due to molecular reorganization. Treated polymer chains rotate inward to minimize surface energy, while untreated segments migrate to the surface. This physical shift reduces the effectiveness of subsequent printing or lamination if the substrate is stored for extended periods before processing.

Maintaining a dry, cool storage environment helps slow down this reorganization process.