Roll-to-roll structuring and PECVD coating of polymer foils

In the innovation field “Functional Surfaces and Materials” at the Fraunhofer IGB, research is being carried out to tailor the surface properties of PU foils and other materials via roll-to-roll processes. The goal is to save considerable costs by applying a unique and resource-saving structures and coatings to self-adhesive, transparent and erosion-resistant PU foils to equip various technical devices with water and ice repellency. We are now able to obtain such surfaces in two separate roll-to-roll processes using low-pressure plasma (pressure p < 100 Pa) in combination with a microstructuring process. Through structure and coating, the contact area and adhesion are minimized. Compared to an untreated reference surface, we are able to increase water contact angles from 76° to 157°. The structuring and coating of polymer foils make it therefore possible to open up new fields of application at lower cost than direct treatment of the various technical surfaces.