Adhesion between poly(ethylene-co-vinyl alcohol) (EVA) and titanium

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Surface Chemistry
• Adhesion Science

Background:

• Titanium's use in various applications necessitates strong adhesion to polymers.
• Evaluating commercial polymers for optimal adhesive properties with titanium is crucial for material development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the lap shear adhesive strength between titanium and diverse commercial polymers.
• To identify polymers exhibiting superior adhesion to titanium.
• To investigate the factors influencing adhesion and water resistance.

Main Methods:

• Lap shear testing was employed to quantify adhesive strength.
• Electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis (ESCA) and contact angle measurements were used to analyze surface properties.
• Water immersion tests at 37°C evaluated long-term adhesion durability.

Main Results:

• Poly(ethylene-co-vinyl alcohol) (EVA) exhibited the highest lap shear adhesive strength with titanium.
• EVA's high hydrophilicity correlated with its superior adhesive performance.
• EVA-titanium bonds maintained strength for over one month in water, unlike polyurethane-titanium bonds.
• Titanium surface modification with hydrogen peroxide significantly enhanced adhesive and peeling strength.

Conclusions:

• EVA is a promising polymer for strong and durable adhesive bonding with titanium.
• Hydrophilicity plays a key role in achieving high and water-resistant adhesion to titanium.
• Surface modification of titanium can further improve adhesive performance by increasing surface area and hydrophilicity.