Enhancing the coloration of polypropylene surfaces through low-frequency plasma modification with disperse dyes

This study focuses on the effective coloring of nonwoven polypropylene surfaces, achieved through the application of oxygen and nitrogen plasma treatments in a vacuum environment using cold plasma. Various plasma durations were employed to introduce experimental diversity into the samples. Following surface modification, dispersal dyeing based on benzenesulphonamide was performed. To evaluate the impact of surface modification, comprehensive characterization tests, including SEM, FTIR-ATR, XRD, and XPS, were conducted. Performance effects were scrutinized through color spectrum values (CIE L*, a*, b*, and K/S values), tearing strengths and contact angle measurements. Furthermore, fastness tests for washing (color change and staining) and for rubbing (dry and wet) were carried out to examine the effect of surface modification on dyed polypropylene nonwoven fabrics. According to the test results, a notable increase in K/S values was observed after plasma treatments. The impact of nitrogen and oxygen plasma treatment on polypropylene surfaces was comprehensively evaluated, considering performance properties across all characterization processes.