Nanoindentation response of PEEK modified by mesh-assisted plasma immersion ion implantation

Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) surfaces have been treated by mesh-assisted plasma immersion ion implantation, significantly altering the viscoelastic properties of the near-surface modified region. The plasticity index derived from nanoindentation load–displacement data indicates that the treated surfaces exhibit greater elastic recovery and reduced plastic deformation compared to unmodified PEEK. Scanning probe microscopy (SPM) images of the surface before and after indentation also show evidence of increased elastic recovery.