Fluorination enhances the properties of plastic products

Better properties in practice

The fluorination process enhances many surface properties. It is highly effective in modifying the top material layer without adversely affecting the properties of the underlying material. No other method can achieve such a targeted effect. Fluorination can be applied to all plastics: ABS, EPDM, plastics made of renewable raw materials, NBR, HNBR, PC, PEEK, PMMA, polyamide, polyester, glass fibre-reinforced polymers, mixed polymers, polypropylene, silicone, TPE, etc.

Wettability fluorination

Smoother fluid films and faster drying

Fluorination hydrophilises surfaces, enhancing coating quality through better wetting, film formation and adhesion properties. This yields significant savings when painting, printing or applying decor to the surface. A smoother water film also means  more even drying, a higher print quality and less lime and mould formation.

Anti-friction fluorination

Reduced friction, stickiness and clinging

The stickiness of elastomer components made of NBR, HNBR, EPDM or other types of rubber and silicone is reduced to a minimum. Talcum, silicone oils or other additives are no longer required. These properties are long time stable even if the material is regularly cleaned or sterilised. Contaminants don’t adhere to the surface, so parts remain clean.

Adhesion fluorination

Better bonding and adhesion

Fluorination can improve the adhesion properties of plastic materials. The polarity of the surface is increased, thereby improving adhesion and wetting. Lamination lasts longer, flocking is more durable, and the bonding of adhesives is improved.

Surface barrier fluorination

Less permeation, diffusion and migration

This type of fluorination creates a barrier against non-polar substances, reducing permeation, diffusion and migration of shortchain fluids (solvents, petrol, coolants, glycerol, etc.) to a minimum. Additives of the plastic material no longer diffuse through the surface, and elements of the container filling no longer permeate the wall.

Benefits of gas-phase fluorination

  • Long-term stability
    Depending on the material, the effects achieved on the surface remain stable for several months
  • Even application with no geometric constraints 
    Even deep grooves, undercuts or cavities with small openings are pre-treated consistently. All exposed surfaces have identical properties.
  • Reproducibility
    The fully automated procedure facilitates easy control and monitoring of influencing factors, allowing the exact result to be replicated later on.
  • Low temperatures
    The treatment is performed at low temperatures that doesn't affect the plastic material. Local temperature peaks are avoided.
  • Antibacterial effect
    Fluorination has an antibacterial effect for a limited period.
  • Dimensional accuracy
    Fluorination has no effect on part geometry.