Use of Plasma Treatment to Increase the Seam Strength of Protective Clothing Made of Composite Material

Plasma treatment of composite material containing Akvapol-11 polyurethane dispersion structured by silver nanoparticles, which is used to seal needle puncture sites and to strengthen seams of protective clothing, was examined. Experimental results showed that the facing side of multifunctional textiles treated with a flux of “cold” plasma at reduced pressure became smoother; the back side, rougher. This provided better air exchange and good hygroscopicity. However, formation of a surface layer on the facing side helped better to deter water from penetrating into the pores. Soaking created a continuous film on the material surface that made it water repellent. Use of plasma treatment increased the seam strength in the composite material by 35% and the relative elongation at break by 18%.