Atmospheric Plasma
Atmospheric plasma or electrical blown ion plasma (also termed focused corona plasma) utilizes a single narrow nozzle electrode powered by an electrical generator and step-up transformer and high-pressurized air in which intensely, focused plasma is generated within the treatment head and streams outward. This pretreatment process can clean dirt, debris and some hydrocarbons from the substrate, but not most silicones and slip agents. New research indicates fine etching of the surface can create new topographies for increased mechanical bonding. Ozone formation is negligible.
Myth: Atmospheric plasma is electrically potential-free.
Fact: Atmospheric plasma is better characterized as “low potential” unless definitively proven to be zero on any specific application. There are performance differences among equipment manufacturers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is atmospheric plasma treatment?
Atmospheric plasma -- also called electrical blown ion plasma or focused corona plasma -- uses a single narrow nozzle electrode driven by an electrical generator and step-up transformer together with high-pressure air. An intensely focused plasma forms inside the treatment head and streams outward onto the part, so the workpiece itself does not sit between electrodes.
Is atmospheric plasma really potential-free?
No, and this is a common misconception. Atmospheric plasma is better characterized as low potential rather than potential-free, unless it has been definitively proven to be zero on that specific application. Performance also differs between equipment manufacturers, so a claim made for one system should not be assumed to hold for another.
Does atmospheric plasma clean the surface as well as activate it?
Partly. It removes dirt, debris and some hydrocarbons, but not most silicones or slip agents. Where those are present on the part, a separate cleaning step is still required before treatment.
Does atmospheric plasma produce ozone?
Ozone formation is negligible with atmospheric plasma, which distinguishes it from electrical corona discharge and electrical air plasma, where ozone is produced in the discharge region.
Does atmospheric plasma only change surface chemistry?
Not only. Alongside the chemical activation, research indicates that fine etching of the surface creates new topographies, which increases mechanical bonding in addition to the chemical effect.
