Modified PTFE parts often require surface treatment to enhance specific properties. Increasing surface energy is a common requirement, which can be achieved through corona treatment, plasma treatment, or chemical etching. These treatments enhance the adhesion of PTFE to other materials and prepare it for subsequent coating or bonding processes. Subsequent operations should be performed promptly after treatment, as the treatment effect diminishes over time.
For applications requiring electrical conductivity, surface metallization can be used. Common methods include electroless nickel plating, vacuum sputtering, or conductive coating. These treatments impart a degree of electrical conductivity to PTFE parts while maintaining most of their desirable properties. Before treatment, the part surface must be clean and free of oil and contaminants. Ultrasonic cleaning and plasma pre-treatment are typically required.
Controlling dimensional stability is another critical post-processing step. Modified PTFE parts may undergo slow dimensional changes after processing, especially in high-temperature environments. Aging the finished parts at 100-120°C for 24-48 hours is recommended to stabilize their dimensions. For precision parts, a longer stabilization period may be required, and dimensional measurements must be performed in a constant temperature and humidity environment to ensure accuracy.
