Research on the surface morphological and electrochemical modification of polyvinyl chloride induced by KrF and ArF excimer laser direct writing

To obtain superior performance in adhesion, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) substrates were modified by excimer laser direct writing with different operating wavelengths, scanning speeds, and laser fluences. The induced morphological and electrochemical changes were detailedly tested and analyzed. Microchannels were formed on the surfaces of the PVC substrates due to the laser ablation, where the melted-resolidified droplet-like structures were distributed uniformly and can significantly improve the mechanical interlock. Furthermore, according to the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses, Lewis bases such as hydroxyl and carbonyl were formed after laser treatment, which is beneficial to the adhesion strength. These mechanical and chemical modifications may play positive roles in enhancing the bonding strength of the PVC edge bandings. (C) 2020 Optical Society of America