Measuring surface energy—The starting point for plasma pretreatment
Every material surface has a specific surface energy. Every liquid (such as ink) also has an inherent tension. Reliable adhesion with long-term stability of printing, gluing or coating requires that the surface energy of the material is greater than that of the liquid. Plastics, for example, have predominantly low surface energy (often less than 28 mN/m). If these plastics are to be printed, a surface energy of 40 mN/m for solvent inks or a surface energy of 56 mN/m for UV-curing systems is required. If water-based paint systems are used, the surface energy has to be above 72 mN/m.
For many industrial applications it is crucial that adhesives and/or printing inks and surface properties are optimally aligned. Targeted pretreatment with atmospheric-pressure plasma achieves a significant increase in surface tension. This gives materials the optimum capabilities for accepting printing ink (wettability) or adhesion.
Test Inks and Fluids
Plasmatreat Surface Solutions is your expert partner for the development, manufacture, quality control, and distribution of highly specialized chemicals that are precisely tailored to the innovative technologies of Plasmatreat GmbH. Drawing on our expertise, we develop and produce precisely formulated precursors, test inks, and AntiCorr® test fluids, ensuring their safe filling and worldwide shipping. Our focus is always on the highest quality and safety standards, as well as a reliable supply for your production processes at all times.
Plasmatreat Test Inks—Measuring Surface Energy
With our test inks, Plasmatreat Surface Solutions offer you a simple way to measure the surface energy of various materials—such as plastic, glass, recycled materials, or composites. Choose between ethanol, formamide, or methanol test inks—each available in two dyne sizes and as convenient sets in carrying cases.
AntiCorr® Test Fluids
With AntiCorr® test fluids, you can verify the corrosion-protective effect of passivating coatings on metal surfaces in less than 60 seconds. The fluid triggers an electrochemical reaction; its reaction time and visible changes reliably provide insight into the quality of the coating and any potential defects.
Plasmatreat offers different possibilities and services to measure the surface energy of your material
Book your individual material test
Give it a try: Our experienced application engineers are looking forward working with you to find the best solution for your use case. In our well-equipped laboratories, together we will pre-treat your individual parts with our plasma technology and analyse the results.
