Plasma treatment
Principle of Plasma treatment
Plasma treatment is a surface treatment that modifies the textile surface without altering the bulk properties (tear resistance, flexibility, density...) of the textile material.
The use of atmospheric plasma is a both economically as ecologically interesting textile treatment. It is therefore no coincidence that the textile industry is becoming increasingly interested in plasma-based techniques.
The drawing below illustrates the working principle: by means of a plasma source, a plasma zone is generated with energetic and active particles (photons, electrons, ions). The textile material is guided through this zone and treated accordingly.
By varying the type of gas and - possibly - precursor, we may alter the surface properties in order to:
- increase the affinity to dyeing and printing
- improve adhesion
- apply antibacterial products
- influence the electrical conductivity
- sterilise
- apply a fire retardant finish
- confer anti-crimp properties to wool
- desize cotton...
