Raman scattering of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene treated by plasma-based ion implantation

Plasma-based ion implantation was used to modify the surface of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene. High-purity N2, He and H2 gases were ionized in radio frequency (rf) discharge and implanted at acceleration voltages of 20-30 kV with dose of 2×1017 ion/cm2. The first-order Raman spectra with probe wavelengths of 785 nm and 488 nm as well as infrared reflection spectra were recorded. It was established that considerable dehydrogenization took place at these treatments and incorporation of oxygen was also detected. Amorphous carbon layer was formed after H+ and N+ treatments. The He+ implantation caused formation of a region with highly graphitic character.