Simulation of low-pressure rf plasma treatment of ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene

Abstract

© Published under licence by IOP Publishing Ltd. Methods of molecular dynamic simulation of the bombardment of polymeric materials by low-energy (up to 100 eV) ions generated in radio-frequency low-pressure (13.3-133 Pa) plasma are discussed. A model of RF plasma treatment of ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) has been developed. It has been established that the bombardment of UHMWPE by argon ions initiates the fast rotation of the polymer chains, and the rupture of intramolecular bonds.