Modification of polyethylene terephthalate track etched membranes by planar magnetron sputtered Ti/TiO2 thin films

This study investigates the surface modification of polyethylene terephthalate track-etched membranes by planar magnetron sputtering titanium and dioxide thin films to improve its hydrophilicity photocatalytic activity. After cold plasma treatment enhanced adhesion, Ti were deposited TiO2 reactive in an Ar-O2 gas atmosphere. The morphology was characterised using atomic force microscopy scanning electron microscopy. pores retained a mostly circular shape. However, modified track membrane's pore diameter reduced from 0.2 µm 0.15 for coated samples 0.08 Ti-TiO2 samples. Structural studies X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, energy-dispersive spectroscopy Raman revealed intricate composition sputtered which result complexity on top porous polymer support. Additional investigations wettability bandgap showed significant change membrane surface's properties after depositing TiO2-Ti, adding self-cleaning TM. film 3.1 eV indirect type. Both TiO2-Ti over TM significantly water contact angle 72° untreated PET 43° 45° Ti-TM TiO2-Ti-TM, respectively. shows that is viable approach polymeric support, such as membranes. coating hydrophilicity, thereby reducing chance fouling organic substances, leads improved properties.