A novel plasma-enhanced way for surface-functionalization of polymeric substrates

Summary In this contribution a novel, low-pressure RF-plasma-enhanced approach is suggested for the surface functionalization of polymeric substrates. The method takes advantage of the high reactivity Ar-plasma generated free radical sites located on PE substrate surfaces, which can promote under in situ conditions, heterogeneous chemical reactions with stable gas-phase molecules, such as 1,3 diamino propane, in the absence of plasma. The presence of covalently attached primary amine functionalities was demonstrated by fluorescamine-labeling technique, further oxallyl chloride-based derivatization, and immobilization of horseradish peroxidase. The existence of specific functionalities on modified PE surfaces at different derivatization stages, was evidenced by ESCA, ATR-FTIR, and enzyme assay tests. Received: 16 May 2001/Revised version: 17 July 2001/Accepted: 19 September 2001