Role of the Active Species of Plasmas Involved in the Modification of Textile Materials

The role of the active species involved in the superficial modification of natural and manmade fibers is discussed for the example of wool and PA6 fabrics treated by means of post‐discharge plasmas (N2, N2 + 23% O2, O2) to avoid UV radiation, ions, electrons and other species present in direct plasma discharges. The active species present in the N2 post‐discharge have been quantitatively and qualitatively evaluated by means of optical emission spectroscopy. Their action on the surface of the fibers has been analyzed by dynamic contact angle, revealing an improved wettability that has been attributed to the generation of new chemical groups and the reduction/elimination of the fatty layer on the surface of wool.