Analysis of the current scientific literature shows a significant interest of researchers to the oxyethylated calix[4]arenes (OC), which function as a surfactant. Study of surface phenomena involving OC promotes evidence-based finding ways to improve efficiency and optimize their actions on polymers. However, the question of establishing a boundary layer in contact with a solid surface in the presence of OC, the mechanism of regulation of wettability and spreadability of compositions remain unelucidated. Effects of degree of ethoxylation on the observed surface effects are poorly understood. In addition, the changes in the surface free energy of the cured materials obtained in the presence of OC are not appreciated.
The purpose of this study was to investigate the addition-agent effect of OCs with varying degrees of oxyethylation (n = 8-20) on the surface energy characteristics of the cured compositions. The polytetrafluoroethylene and polyethylene terephthalate were used as the polymer surface. It was shown that the content of the polar groups in the polymer surface layer and the length of the oxyethylene chain additively influence the wetting ability and the work of adhesion. Good wetting and adhesion abilities of the OC – polymer systems are observed for all systems, but maximum contact angle value depends on the degree of ethoxylation of OCs, their concentration and polymer surface type. As it follows from the results obtained, OCs may be used in processes of preparation and modification of the surface properties of polymeric materials, which is rather sufficient for further systematic research in this field.
The work was supported by Russian Foundation for Basic Research (project 14-03-31141).
kashapov@iopc.ru
