Modification of the adhesion properties of PTFE by a magnesium treatment

Despite the many advantages of fluoropolymers, their inability to bond readily can pose problems. Following work published elsewhere on the development of surface pre-treatments for polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) using solutions of solvated electrons, we consider here the peel adhesion of a rubbery epoxy to PTFE thus treated. In all cases, the solvated electron treatment increases adhesive properties. When low concentrations of alkali metal ions are added to the solution, the improvement of adhesion is more marked. Various possible mechanisms leading to improved adhesion are discussed.