Modifications of Cotton Cellulose Surfaces by Use of Radiofrequency Cold Plasmas and Characterization of Surface Changes by ESCA

Abstract

Radiofrequency (rf) cold plasmas of argon, nitrogen, and air were used to modify cotton fabrics and yarns. Changes in surface characteristics were detected by application of the techniques of electron emission spectroscopy for chemical analyses (ESCA), electron spin resonance, and chemiluminescence. Examples of polymeriza tion of selected monomers and depolymerization of chemically modified cottons within rf plasmas have been used to illustrate potentials of combinations of plasmas and ESCA in cellulose chemistry.