Student paper

Influence of the substrate on layer growth in plasma processes

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

The aim of your work is to deposit functional coatings on different substrates using plasma processes and thus analyse and evaluate the influence of substrate topography and chemistry on the resulting layers.
Stuwi-Einfluss des Substrates auf das Schichtwachstum bei Plasmaprozessen© IKV
Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images of deposits from plasma reactors

Topic of the work

PECVD processes are used to increase the barrier properties of plastics in the packaging sector, among other things. In this application, the barrier properties are increased in plasma reactors by depositing layers containing silicon oxide on plastics. It is known from the literature that the deposition of these layers is strongly dependent on the substrate (e.g. PET bottle). Influence have, for example the substrate topography, which is production-related or results from post-treatment, as well as the composition of the substrate (plastic, steel, aluminum). Depending on the substrate factors mentioned, the coating chemistry and coating growth can change.

Microscopic and spectroscopic methods will be used to examine and characterize the layers produced. The influences of the topography (e.g. grinding, sandblasting, etc.) and the material of the substrate are to be evaluated.

Objective:

The aim of this thesis is to investigate the influence of the substrate (substrate topography and composition) on the resulting plasma layers, in particular on the layer chemistry and growth. The aim is to gain insights into the interactions between the species in the plasma and the surfaces in the plasma reactor.

Your task:

The work is divided into the following steps:

  • Literature research (physical principles, processes, generation of coatings, influencing factors, etc.)
  • Joint development of a test and analysis plan
  • Final evaluation of the factors influencing the final properties

Preferred study programs:

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

These are your benefits:

  • Work in 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.