Originally Published EMDM May/June 2002
PLASMA TECHNOLOGY
Machine processes large rolls of textiles and films
A large roll treater applies plasma technology to nonwovens, wovens, and film products up to 1800 mm in width. Activation and hydrophobic or hydrophilic surface modifications can be made on a real production scale.
The machine is manufactured by MEDTEC exhibitor Europlasma N.V. (Oudenaarde, Belgium). "We see a lot of medical textiles being treated with plasma," says Europlasma managing director Anthony Vanlandeghem, noting that the company's large roll treater was made with applications like blood filters and air filters in mind. "Plasma is a dry process, it's environmentally friendly, and it's biocompatible," he says.
Europlasma's large roll treater can perform activation in preparation for further processing, or modification by plasma polymerization coatings. Such thin, highly cross-linked and stable coatings have properties that allow OEMs to forego traditional chemical techniques. Typical treatments include surface cleaning, battery separation, surface activation, and barrier performance coatings on film and textile.
Vanlandeghem notes that customers can test their applications on a unit at the company's Belgian headquarters. "We are problem solvers," he says," and we develop applications with our customers." The firm also offers customized plasma equipment and consulting services on plasma processes and machines.
Copyright ©2002 European Medical Device Manufacturer
