Dave Biering
A question was posed to our Ask the Experts line wondering about the differences between plasma surface modification and corona treatment. While there are a variety of surface modification techniques to help achieve desired results, today we’ll compare some of the key advantages and considerations of plasma treatment vs. corona treatment.
Plasma
Plasma treatment can readily prime any surface for adhesion, painting, coating or printing applications. Plasma is a good option for components that require a longer treatment hold before moving to the next step in manufacturing. Other key advantages of plasma treatment include:
- Good surface chemistry selectivity
- Enhanced control of gas type, flow, pressure and concentration
- Three-dimensional treatment
- Earth-friendly process that uses no damaging solvents
Considerations
- Price is relative to system size; as the system size increases the price increases
- Throughput is restricted by batch-to-batch logistics
- In-house systems can be very costly; it most cases outsourcing is a better value
Corona
Corona discharge is a form of plasma at standard atmospheric pressure and is normally used with in-line processes such as plastic film, which is where treatment shines. Key advantages include:
- Price of purchasing a system for in-house treatment
- Systems are robust and easy to maintain
- User-friendly
Considerations
- Lack of surface chemistry selectivity
- Limited polymer choice
- Treatment is two-dimensional
See our video for additional information on the services provided by our Enhanced Materials Division (EMD).
