Laser-induced surface modifications of poly(ether ether ketone): influence of the excimer laser wavelength

The modifications induced by excimer laser irradiation of poly(ether ether ketone) (PEEK) surfaces have been investigated as a function of the laser process parameters for laser fluences below the material ablation threshold. In the case of 193 nm laser treatment, a significant increase in the adhesion properties of PEEK was obtained due to the formation of new polar and reactive groups on the surface. The extent of these reactive groups has to be controlled since their presence in high concentration may also have a negative effect on the mechanical properties of the treated surface. Laser treatments using 248 nm radiation did not result in a significant increase in the adhesion properties of PEEK. This probably results from thermal degradation of the surface at this laser wavelength.