Applications of ESCA to polymer chemistry. Part VI. Surface fluorination of polyethylene. Application of ESCA to the examination of structure as a function of depth

Abstract

Abstract Molecular core binding energies have been measured by ESCA for series of surface‐fluorinated high‐density polyethylene films. Detailed analysis of the results shows that the technique can be used to establish a comprehensive picture of the early stages of the surface fluorination process. Both the depth of fluorination, and stoichiometry and molecular structure as a function of depth, in the range 0–50 Å have been established. In addition, minor features such as oxidation, hydration, and hydrocarbon contamination at the surface are clearly revealed. Detailed consideration of the results allows a discussion of the dynamics of the overall fluorination process.