The surface of a vulcanized ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber was modified by microwave plasma in Ar, Ar/O2, N2/O2 and N2/H2 in order to improve the adhesion properties. Surface modification was characterized by FT-IR/UATR, because this technique showed smaller interference of ingredients of EPDM formulation in comparison with other techniques used (ATR KRS-5 and Ge). Oxygenated groups were introduced in the EPDM surface after treatment, even in treatments without oxygen. Theses groups were formed when the activated surface was exposed to the atmosphere. In treatments with nitrogen, oxygenated and possible nitrogenated groups were identified by FT-IR. Reduction in the contact angle, increase in the work of adhesion and increase in the peel strength (EPDM × Polyurethane) were observed after treatment with Ar and N2/H2, resulting in improved adhesion properties of the modified surface.
EPDM; plasma; surface characterization; FT-IR
