UV radiation is a key method for the targeted pretreatment of surfaces – entirely without chemicals, heat, or mechanical contact. Whether for improved adhesion, cleaning, or matting: Modern UV and excimer technologies enable precise, efficient processes for sensitive materials and the highest quality standards.
Technical Basics: Changes at the Molecular Level
At its core, UV technology uses high-energy photons to modify surface properties at the molecular level.
The process includes:- Breaking molecular organic bonds in surfaces
- Removing organic residues/contaminants
- Increasing reactivity towards oxygen and other elements
- Increasing surface energy
- Improved wettability and optimal adhesion properties
Excimer lamps play a crucial role in surface treatment for increased adhesion: They generate precise wavelengths of VUV radiation (172 nanometers) to effectively modify surfaces without increased heat load. These special light sources offer a consistent, controlled treatment that is particularly valuable for sensitive materials.
Applications: Printing, medical, optics, and semiconductor industry
The unique ability of UV light to optimize surface structures leads to diverse industrial applications.
Irradiation is particularly suitable where components made of different materials need to form a strong and robust bond.
- Printing: VUV radiation can mat coatings without photoinitiators
- Medical technology and prosthetics: Optimal bonds for soft and hard materials such as silicone bonds
- Optical and semiconductor industries: UV cleaning combined with improved adhesive bonds and surface properties
Advantages of UV treatment compared to conventional methods
Whether you want to optimize bonding processes or improve surface properties, VUV technology offers a sophisticated solution that meets modern industrial requirements.
The advantages at a glance:
- Non-contact processing:Minimizes the risk of material damage
- Energy efficiency: Lower operating costs
- Environmental compatibility: Chemical-free operation
- Dual function: Simultaneous cleaning and activation
- Shallow penetration depth: Prevents damageto deeper layers
- Long-lasting effect: Activation lasts a long time because no volatile molecular fragments are produced
Conclusion: Modern UV surface activation for sensitive areas
For industrial decision-makers, UV surface activation represents a modern, efficient approach to surface pretreatment. Excimer technology is a mature alternative: The combination of precision and environmental compatibility And process efficiency makes them attractive for high-tech production environments where quality and consistency are paramount.
Looking for a development partner? Our experts can help!
For new applications, technical parameters such as UV dosage and the selected spectrum must be optimized for the specific materials and desired effects. Our experts from the Radium TECH Application Center are available to assist you with development projects – on the path to new solutions in industrial UV and IR applications!