Influence of plasma discharge on vapor sensitivity of polyethylene/carbon black conductive films

A novel conductive film using polyethylene as a matrix and acetylene carbon black as conductive fillers was prepared by solution dipping and depositing on a comb-like electrode. The surface treatment and cross-linking effect of the polyethylene/carbon black composite films were dealt with by plasma under the conditions of different ion atmosphere, various discharge power and discharge time. The electric resistance response of the plasma-modified composite films was investigated to a variety of solvent vapors at different environmental temperatures. The morphological structures of the conductive films were characterized by environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM). The experimental results indicated that the morphology or microstructure of the composite films could be remarkably improved by plasma discharge, resulting in higher vapor sensitivity.