Exploring new techniques for the surface modification of high-performance polymer materials

Abstract

The surface modification of high-performance polymers is a critical area of research, as these materials possess excellent mechanical, chemical, and thermal properties but often lack the surface functionality required for various applications. This thesis encompasses three chapters that explore innovative techniques to enhance the surface properties of high-performance polymers and extend their applications across diverse sectors.

Chapter 2 delves into the significance of nanoscale control over polymeric surface characteristics for improving mechanical and functional properties. It highlights the limitations of traditional surface modification methods and introduces a novel approach utilizing block copolymer self-assembly. This method is applied to generate metallic oxide nanopillars on challenging high-performance polymer substrates, such as PEEK, CFPEEK, and UHMWPE. The resulting structures are thoroughly characterized, emphasizing the versatility and cost-effectiveness of this technique for tailoring surface properties, thereby expanding the potential applications of these polymers.

Chapter 3 introduces two more surface modification techniques. The first focuses on grafting P2VP-OH polymer brushes onto high-performance polymers, paving the way for effective surface modification. These grafted polymer brush films are then used to produce metal oxide films, showcasing their potential for applications ranging from wetting control to nanoscale device fabrication. The second technique explores a one-step graft photocrosslinking process to produce biopolymer thin films on the same polymer substrates. This study investigates various monomers and photoinitiators, offering versatile options for creating bioactive surfaces with applications in biomedical devices, advanced sensors, and electronic components.

Chapter 4 presents a collaboration with Depuy Synthes? to investigate the deposition of Hydroxyapatite (HA) on PEEK substrates. It explores the potential of a \ce{TiO2} thin layer coating to enhance surface hydroxyapatite (HA) deposition, resembling conditions in titanium-based implants. Surface roughness is identified as a key determinant, and the study demonstrates that multiple HA deposition runs yield denser and more crystalline HA layers. These findings provide valuable insights into HA coatings on high-performance polymers, suggesting potential biomedical applications and emphasizing the synergy between academic and industrial research.

Collectively, these chapters contribute to the field of surface modification of high-performance polymers by presenting innovative techniques that enable precise control over surface properties. The research opens up new avenues for applications in industries such as automotive, biomedical, construction, aerospace, and electronics, ultimately advancing the utility of high-performance polymers in various sectors.