The treatment process involves bombarding the plastic (or composite) surface with flame/plasma to improve bonding and paint adhesion
Flame and plasma treatment does several things, it removes static and both organic and inorganic impurities. It creates micro-etching, this means more surface resulting in a better bond.
WHY IS THIS PROCESS NEEDED?
Plastics typically have a low surface energy – and this treatment increases surface energy which will allow the paint to adhere to the surface more effectively.
The surface energy of the plastic needs to be raised to a level compatible with the surface tension of a liquid paint, or adhesive etc, to ensure an effective bond between the two.
The effect of the treatment is to minimise the forming of drops and the liquid to spread out on the surface of the plastic. This provides a greater surface area for the bond to form in.
However, surface energy can drop away again over time – so careful management of the process to ensure sufficient speed and get the optimum result is required.
HOW DO GEKATEX PRODUCTS HELP THE PROCESS?
G-LIGHT PQE is perfect for identifying contamination, our presaturated wipes are the best choice for degreasing the surface – while our tack rags, will remove particles ahead of treatment.
HOW DOES THE TREATMENT IMPACT THE FINAL PRODUCT?
A properly prepared surface will reduce the potential for a substandard finish and the need for costly reworking, or even disposal. Successful treatment will ensure paint can correctly adhere to a surface – increase the strength of a bond, or improve a seal.
Find out more about our products in plastics and composites by downloading an industry brochure here: here
Contact us to speak to one of our experts!
