Structural-Mechanical Properties of Polyurethane Surface after Carbon Ion Subplantation

Abstract

Ion-plasma modification of polymers has many potential applications, in particular, in the development of biomedical products. Treatment of soft polymers can easily damage the surface; low-energy plasma and subsequent investigation of the structural and mechanical properties of the surface are required. Polyurethane is a widely used block copolymer. Subplantation of carbon ions heterogeneously changes the structural and mechanical properties of the surface (relief, stiffness, thickness of the modified coating), forming a graphene-like nanolayer. Uniaxial deformation of the treated materials in some cases leads to the damage of the surface (local nanocracks, folds). Materials have increased hydrophobicity, good deformability (valid for certain treatment regimes) and can find application in design of products with improved biomedical properties.