Influence of plasmas on the structural characterization of polyester fibres determined by Hg-porosimetry

The effect of atmospheric plasma treatment on the structure of poly(ethyleneterephthalate) (PET) fibres was investigated. An Hg-porosimetry method was used for a detailed investigation of one of the four main adhesion theories, mechanical interlocking, when PET fibres were used as reinforcement material and conventional SBR rubber as the matrix. The penetration of the rubber into the PET fibres was investigated using scanning electron microscopy. The rubberizing of PET fibres was investigated at two different temperatures in order to compare the influence of rubber matrix viscosity. The differences in Hg-porosity suggest that atmospheric plasma treatment has a substantial effect on the interlocking of the rubber matrix into the PET fibres.