Effects of radio frequency (RF) plasma activation on the pull-out, friction, and fracture toughness performance of para-aramid fabrics

Bilisik E., Korkmaz M., Bilişik A.

Surfaces and Interfaces, cilt.86, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus) identifier

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
  • Cilt numarası: 86
  • Basım Tarihi: 2026
  • Doi Numarası: 10.1016/j.surfin.2026.108695
  • Dergi Adı: Surfaces and Interfaces
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Anahtar Kelimeler: Argon RF plasma activation, Fracture toughness, Friction, Intra-yarn shear, Pull-out
  • Kayseri Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

Para-aramid fabrics are widely used in high-performance protective systems, where interfacial mechanics and frictional behavior critically influence energy absorption and structural reliability. Surface modification techniques are therefore of increasing research interest, particularly for tailoring fiber–fiber and fiber–matrix interactions. In this context, the present study examines the effects of argon radio-frequency (RF) plasma activation on the interfacial mechanics of para-aramid fabrics. Spectroscopic (FTIR, Raman), crystallographic (XRD), and thermal (TGA/DTA) analyses confirm that plasma exposure induces ion-bombardment-driven micro-roughening and partial finish removal while preserving the intrinsic chemical structure of the fibers. Compared with untreated fabrics (KPO), both plasma-activated (PPO) and chemically cleaned samples (RPO) exhibited altered pull-out behavior. Although the initial resistance during crimp extension stage remained comparable, multi-yarn pull-out energy in PPO decreased by 29 %, driven by earlier onset of intra-bundle shear and reduced inter-fiber cohesion. Tensile strength loss following plasma activation further promoted premature fibril separation, weakening interlacement pressure and lowering fracture toughness. Static friction coefficients in PPO were consistently 5 % lower than RPO and KPO under both dry and wet conditions, reflecting suppressed fibrillation, reduced adhesive contact, and diminished micro-interlocking. The work uniquely integrates multi-yarn pull-out mechanics, frictional behavior, and fracture toughness to reveal previously unreported deformation mechanisms induced by RF-argon plasma in soft para-aramid fabrics. Overall, while argon RF plasma activation provides a controlled and solvent-free route for tailoring surface topology, it also introduces trade-offs in pull-out resistance, frictional response, and fracture toughness due to reduced packing density and weakened interfacial constraint.