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Critical remarks on chemical derivatization analysis of plasma‐treated polymer surfaces and plasma polymers
Author(s) -
Klages ClausPeter,
Kotula Stefan
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
plasma processes and polymers
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.644
H-Index - 74
eISSN - 1612-8869
pISSN - 1612-8850
DOI - 10.1002/ppap.201600210
Subject(s) - derivatization , polymer , reagent , electrophile , chemistry , plasma , chemical modification , carboxylic acid , organic chemistry , polymer chemistry , chemical engineering , high performance liquid chromatography , physics , quantum mechanics , engineering , catalysis
The notion that individual functional groups on plasma‐modified polymer surfaces or in plasma polymers can be detected and quantified using selectively reacting derivatization reagents has dominated the field of plasma‐based surface technology since more than 30 years. For nitrogenated films and surfaces it has traditionally been believed that amino groups can be analyzed selectively using electrophilic reagents such as benzaldehydes or carboxylic acid anhydrides. This article presents arguments indicating that traditionally applied methodologies are partially based on myths. Presumed amino groups are – at least to a substantial extent – probably in fact other nitrogen‐bearing moieties. It is open to question if primary or secondary amino groups could “survive” the physico‐chemical environment typical of a plasma at all. Advancing the chemical understanding of N‐containing plasma‐generated films and surfaces, and plasma‐chemical formation mechanisms requires rethinking the interpretation of derivatization experiments.