Topic: Use of VOC-free adhesives and anti-friction coatings on EPDM profiles. Increasing the surface tension of ethylene propylene diene rubber. Plasma activation of EPDM.
Plasma pretreatment enables the use of VOC-free and solvent-free adhesives and anti-friction coatings.
The
main effect achieved by Openair® Plasma pretreatment is activation
of material surfaces.
On the otherwise non-polar EPDM profile surfaces, it produces
specific chemical functionalities (such as OH groups, COC, CH3,
hydroxyl, carbonyl and carboxyl groups). In addition, it increases
the surface tension to > 72 mN/m.
EPDM profile with anti-friction coating
EPDM profile before flock coating
This
optimal preparation through plasma pretreatment makes it possible for
the first time to use water-based adhesives and anti-friction coating
systems that contain no VOCs (volatile organic compounds) to process
EPDM profiles.
Openair® Plasma can be integrated easily into the process where it
assures outstanding adhesion results.
Partners & References
HutchinsonPainting and bonding EPDM seals
EPDM profiles for the automobile industry are pretreated with Openair® plasma before painting or flocking at Hutchinson in Aachen, Germany. The advantages: scrap reduction, increased production, and the highest process safety reliability.
