Electret properties of polymer films and fiber materials modified by phosphorus trichloride

A method is proposed for increasing electret charge stability of polymer films and fibrous materials via their modification by phosphorus trichloride vapors. Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) polymer films, and fibrous materials made of LDPE by the melt-blowing technique were investigated. Introduction of phosphorus-containing nanostructures was found to improve the electret charge stability. This is attained by enlarging surface concentration of electrically active centers formed during chemical exchange reactions. It has been shown that phosphorus-containing nanostructures are responsible for creation of the deep surface energy trapping centers able to efficiently retain electret homocharges.