Plasma treatment prior to epoxy bonding is a common industrial process used to improve the adhesion of epoxy to a surface, and is a reliable method for ensuring a strong bond between two materials. Plasma treatment is a plasma glow process used to clean or etch a surface prior to application of an adhesive, such as epoxy or other deposition layers. Also used to insure the adhesion between two epoxy layers.
The plasma process improves the surface energy and reactivity of the material, making it easier for the epoxy to adhere to the surface. The AutoGlow 1000 is typically used for this production application utilizing up to seven electrode shelves to hold the samples. Typical process is:
- argon or oxygen as the process gas
- 500 watts of power
- 13.56 MHz RF
- 500 to 700 mTorr chamber pressure
- Time is set under 5-10 minutes (testing required)
- Testing and a process matrix should be used for process development for specific parts or devices
The computer controlled AutoGlow 1000 has a throttle valve, so the process gas flow can be set independent of chamber pressure.
Plasma treatment is a relatively simple process and is often used in industrial applications, such as aerospace and automotive manufacturing, as well as for medical devices and prosthetics. During the process, the AutoGlow 1000 is used to generate highly energetic particles, which clean the surface by removing contaminants, such as oils, dust, and other particles, that may be present. This is done by creating a high-temperature, low-pressure environment that breaks down the molecular bonds of the contaminants, allowing them to be easily removed from the surface. The AutoGlow 1000 has a gas distribution manifold that delivers metered process gas to the front of the vacuum chamber. Plasma reactive species flow evenly across multiple shelves to insure good treatment uniformity across all shelves and treated product.
In addition to cleaning the surface, the plasma glow can also be used to etch the surface, which creates microscopic crevices that help to promote adhesion. This etching process increases the surface area of the material, allowing more of the epoxy to be in contact with the surface, resulting in a stronger bond. The increased surface area also makes it easier for the epoxy to penetrate the material, further improving the strength of the bond.
Overall, plasma treatment is an effective way of improving the adhesion of epoxy to a surface prior to bonding. The process is relatively simple and can be done quickly, making it an ideal choice for industrial or lab applications. Furthermore, the process can be tailored to meet the specific needs of the application, ensuring a strong and reliable bond between two materials.