Application of microwave/radio frequency and radio frequency/magnetron sputtering techniques in polyurethane surface modification

Purpose: The aim of the study is the analysis of the possibilities of application of MW/RF PACVD and RF PACVD/MS systems in polyurethane surface modification. Design/methodology/approach: As the substrates samples made out of the biocompatibile polyurethane were used. Modifications were performed in MW/RF PACVD and RF PACVD/MS reactors using different gases and process parameters. Topography, thickness and contact angle were measured using Atomic Force Microscopy, Profilometry and Contact Angle Measuring Instrument. Findings: Optimal plasma parameters ensuring deposition of carbon layers without surface degradation were worked out. Deposited layers were less than 500 nm thick and presented the wetting angle value more than 90ş. During the examinations the influence of the gas atmosphere and process parameters used for the preliminary substrates modification were investigated. Obtained results prove the possibility of application of MW/RF PACVD and RF PACVD/MS techniques in deposition of carbon-based coatings on polyurethane substrates used for artificial heart chambers manufacturing. Research limitations/implications: Modification of polymer surface has to be conducted at low temperatures, up to 100şC. Unfortunately not all CVD and PVD methods used in this field guarantee the adequate adhesion of manufactured layers deposited in such low temperatures. So far the most promising results were obtained with use of PLD (pulsed laser deposition) techniques. However application of MW (microwave) low temperature plasma source and combination of magnetron sputtering technique with RF (radio frequency) plasma source seems to be equally interesting techniques. Originality/value: Optimization of carbon layers deposition techniques on polyurethane substrates can be helpful in improvement of modern artificial heart chambers construction. All investigation results obtained in his field attend to work out the new generation of cardiosurgical implants within the confines of multiyear Project „Polish Artificial Hart”.