At times it is necessary to negate the effect of the non-stick properties of fluoropolymers – most commonly to enable adhesives to be used to adhere the product to a substrate.
Typically we only etch the fluoroplastic film, tubing or sleeving we have manufactured.
There are two in-house techniques Holscot currently offer to treat the fluoropolymer surface.
Sodium Naphthalene Etching
The etchant is made using sodium in a naphthalene suspension. The etching solution is applied to the surface of the fluoropolymer in an inert atmosphere. The surface composition of the Fluoropolymer sees a reduction is the fluorine and/or chlorine content and an increase in the carbon content and oxygen content. The etched surface is composed virtually entirely of carbon and oxygen and a small amount of fluorine. The change in the surface of the etched fluoropolymer is also reflected in the contact angle. This can be tested by the use of a Sessile Tester.
The Sodium Naphthalene etching process is used by Holscot on FEP and PFA and is the most commonly used treatment. The resultant product has a light brown hue.
Sodium Ammonia Etching
Also comprised of sodium in a solution but this time it is ammonia. With a limited shelf life, this has to be used instantly after it is formed. Holscot use this process only for PFA in tube form. The resultant tubes have a much darker brown finish than those etched using the sodium naphthalene process and are sometimes splashy in appearance.
Holscot are willing to carry out the etching process for customers’ own fluoropolymer products. Contact our sales team on sale@holscot.com about your project.
Adhesive
Holscot have successfully supplied adhesive for fitting of sleeves for many years. We offer 2 reliable formulas, that we hold in stock. If you would like to purchase our recommended adhesive please contact us with details of the surface area you plan to cover and information regarding the roller substrate and we will be able to advise on the quantity and suitability of adhesive.