Control of the interfacial properties of ultrahigh‐molecular‐weight polyethylene/magnesium hybrid composites through use of atmospheric plasma treatment

Abstract This work aims to explore the use of lightweight magnesium alloys as an advanced composite material in conjunction with lightweight thermoplastic materials, such as ultrahigh‐molecular‐weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). High throughput, environmentally friendly, atmospheric plasma treatment methods were used to control the interfacial properties and improve the adhesion behavior of metallic/UHMWPE composites. Helium‐oxygen dielectric barrier discharges were used, and the plasma‐activated UHMWPE surfaces were characterized through analytical and mechanical characterization methods. Oxygen content on the treated polymer surfaces increased 18.1–36.0%. A reduction in silicon content combined with characterization through microscopy reveal a preference for the attack of the matrix over the polyethylene fibers. Wetting angles for the treated samples decreased as much as 53.7%. Treated UHMWPE/Mg hybrid samples exhibited lap shear strengths up to 113.7% greater than the control. Both the plasma‐induced surface functionalization with oxygen‐containing polar groups (carboxyl, carbonyl, and hydroxyl groups) and the preferential mild etching of the polymer matrix over the fibers lead to the improvement in adhesion. POLYM. COMPOS., 2012. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers