A method for enhancing the adhesion properties of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) surfaces is presented. The approach employs a fast neutrals flow generated by a DC glow discharge plasma with a grid neutralizer. Low power levels (≈6 W) provided by the stable DC discharge prevent physical sputtering and surface damage, while strong UV radiation from pure argon promotes efficient defluorination. The choice of working gas composition, discharge parameters, and treatment duration was informed by plasma emission spectroscopy, water contact angle (WCA) measurements, and systematic optimization. The combined effect of low-energy neutral particles and UV radiation leads to a significant increase in surface energy to 82 mN/m and a reduction in WCA to 13°, confirming the effectiveness of the proposed method. Thanks to its simplicity, scalability, and reliability, the method holds significant potential for industrial applications.

A fast-neutral flux generated from a glow gas discharge using a custom-designed source has been proposed to improve the adhesion of PTFE surfaces. The effects of glow discharge parameters and the composition of the working gas on the activation process were evaluated through contact angle measurements and subsequent surface energy calculations. PTFE surfaces treated in an argon atmosphere exhibited the most significant hydrophilic and adhesive properties, achieving a water contact angle as low as 13∘ and surface energy values of 82 mN/m, with an exceptionally high polar component. The optimal effect was observed when the optical spectrum of the plasma showed maximum intensity peaks in the UV range at wavelengths between 310 and 315 nm. The outcomes of this proposed method were then compared with those obtained using conventional industrial techniques for enhancing adhesion.