Elastomer surface modification by means of SIAD of metal-based layers

The composition of Zr-based thin films on vulcanized synthetic rubber by means of self-ion-assisted deposition was investigated by utilizing the Rutherford backscattering technique and rump code simulation. Pin Pull Test method was applied both to measure the level of adhesion between the deposited metal (Me)-based layer and rubber and mechanical properties of modified rubber surface. Hardness measurements of the thin films on substrate were fulfilled by applying a conventional Knoop method, an ultra-low load indenter and a laser-acoustic test method. The deposited films may be soft or very hard in dependence of Me species. Deposition of Me-based coatings changes the wettability of the modified rubber to water. We observe 10% decrease and 30% increase in a contact angle of water when Mo-based and Zr-based coatings are deposited on the rubber.