HF Plasma Discharge for Surface Modification of Cellulose-Based Materials

The paper aims at assessing morphological and chemical changes on the surface of the cellulose-based materials, such as paper, induced by high frequency (HF) plasma discharge. The topic is discussed using capacitive coupled plasma discharge at 1.2 MHz, performed in Ar/O2 mixtures, on objects made up of natural polymers, such as lignocellulosic fibers. The preliminary findings indicate the possibility of using HF cold plasma discharge for obtaining the modified properties of the cellulose-based surfaces. Simultaneously, this treatment is well suited for cleaning and decontamination purposes. The improved wettability of the cellulose-based materials after surface activation in low pressure HF Ar/O2 plasma is favorable for a subsequent deposition of protective coating formulas specific in the conservation practices.