Just as tape can be used to determine the adhesion level of inks and coatings, tape can also be used to determine the surface energy of a surface.

The concept of the contact angle is also depicted with a small liquid droplet on a flat horizontal solid surface.

The object of surface treating is to improve the wettability of the surface, thereby improving the ability to bond to solvents, adhesives, and coatings. In order for a surface to be properly wet by a liquid, the surface energy of the plastic must be higher than the surface tension of the liquid.

Have you ever seen small insects walking on the water? Or small objects, such as needles or clips, floating on its surface? These amazing facts are due to surface tension.

How can you determine if surface treatment provides the results you desire? Ideally you could integrate a plasma treating solution into your production line and see if the results meet your quality control standards. In most cases this is not practical, so laboratory treatment trials are your next best option.