Sputter-deposited nanostructure of polymeric fluorocarbon coatings on polyethylene terephthalate fiber

Fluorocarbon polymer coatings have been deposited on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fiber by sputtering polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). SEM images show that at 300 W and 8.0 Pa, the deposited particles can construct a novel nanostructure but the morphology varied in different domains on the round fiber surface: an intercrossed nanowire structure at the fiber top zone and a nanoscale tussock structure on the two sides, respectively. This may result from a competitive–synergetic action caused by energy dissipation, potential fluctuation, tip discharge and enhanced surface energy of a small round surface. The small round surface of the fiber can significantly affect the molecular structure and properties of the coating. In comparison with the coating deposited on the PET film, the coating on the PET fiber possesses higher ratios of –CF3 and F/C and lower water contact angle, which resulted from the contribution of surface composition and distinct surface morphology.