Wettability and XPS analyses of nickel-phosphorus surfaces after plasma treatment: An efficient approach for surface qualification in mechatronic processes

► Plasma induced transformations of NiP surface properties and composition have been studied. ► The plasma treatment provokes a strong increase of the polar fraction of the superficial tension. ► Benefit of the plasma treatment for electronic and mechatronic assembly processes achieved under ambient conditions is demonstrated. ► This effect is correlated with the elimination of the carbon contamination of the surface. ► In the same time the oxidation and nitridation of the underneath NiP metal surface occurs. ► Benefit of the plasma treatment on solderability depends on the balance between these effects.