IKV Logo Portrait

Student paper

Contrast generation using plasma treatments in the evaluation of microscopic structures

Bachelor’s thesis, Master’s thesis, project work or research laboratory

The aim of your work is to carry out selective phase contrasting on polymer blends and semi-crystalline polymers using the plasma etching technique.
Stuwi-Kontrasterzeugung mithilfe von Plasmabehandlungen bei der Bewertung mikroskopischer Strukturen© IKV
Light microscopic image of an etched PP sample using wet chemical contrasting

Topic of the work:

The visualization of individual structural components in multiphase or semi-crystalline polymers, such as impact-modified thermoplastics, poses challenges for microscopy. In order to make different phases visible, it is possible to use wet-chemical contrasting, which is, however, time-consuming to prepare and requires the use of extremely toxic chemicals.

In this work, experiments are to be carried out on so-called oxygen etching by means of plasma treatment. The effects of different process parameters (time, power and volume flow) on the etching result on a multiphase plastic or polymer blend are to be investigated and evaluated using scanning electron microscopy. An important aspect here is the determination of the process window, which shows the desired effect in the contrast. The contrast is evaluated using light and electron microscopic analyses.

Objective:

The aim of this project work is to determine suitable parameter sets for plasma treatment adapted to the respective material.

Your task:

The work is divided into the following steps:

  • Literature research (process, material used, influencing factors, etc.)
  • Plasma treatment on the laboratory reactor
  • Analysis of structures before and after contrasting
  • Final elaboration of the optimum process conditions for the desired effect

Preferred study programs:

  • General mechanical engineering
  • Materials science
  • Applied chemistry
  • Applied Polymer Science
  • Industrial engineering, specialising in mechanical engineering

These are your benefits:

  • Working with a motivated team
  • Independent work with intensive support
  • Co-design of current research projects
  • Individual coordination of tasks and time frame
  • Fast processing, direct contact for questions during processing
  • Varied mix of research, experimental work in the lab and analytics
  • Immediate start possible

If you are interested in writing your thesis at IKV and in this task, please get in touch with me. We agree on the exact scope of content and schedule individually.