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The mechanical properties of a surface-modified layer on poly(dimethylsiloxane)
K L Mills1, Xiaoyue Zhu, Shuichi Takayama
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
Journal of Materials Research
|September 26, 2009
Summary
Oxygen plasma treatment creates a stiff, thin film on poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS). This surface layer is brittle, with nano-cracks forming under strain, revealing its mechanical properties.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Science
- Surface Engineering
Background:
- Poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) is a widely used elastomer.
- Surface modification techniques are crucial for tailoring material properties.
- Oxygen plasma treatment is a common method for altering PDMS surfaces.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the thickness and mechanical properties of oxygen plasma-treated PDMS.
- To investigate the behavior of the modified surface layer under mechanical stress.
- To determine the elastic modulus, crack formation, and toughness of the surface film.
Main Methods:
- Atomic-force microscopy (AFM) with tapping mode to image the surface topography and distinguish layers.
- Analysis of load-displacement data from AFM indentation to determine elastic modulus.
- Application of uniaxial strain to induce nano-cracking.
- Numerical analysis to model crack depth and material toughness.
Main Results:
- Oxygen plasma treatment for four minutes created a stiff surface layer on PDMS.
- AFM imaging indicated a graded surface layer to approximately 200 nm depth.
- The elastic modulus of the surface layer was determined to be 37 MPa.
- Nano-cracks formed under strain, with depths ranging from 300-600 nm.
- The surface layer exhibited extreme brittleness with toughness between 0.1-0.3 J/m(2).
Conclusions:
- Oxygen plasma treatment significantly alters the mechanical properties of PDMS surfaces.
- The modified layer is stiff but brittle, prone to nano-cracking.
- Understanding these properties is essential for applications involving modified PDMS surfaces.
