Effect of Chemical Treatment of Poly(ethylene Terephthalate) Surfaces on Mechanical and Water-sorption Properties

A suitable method to functionalize the surface of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) consists in the chemical treatment with different amines such as triethylenetetramine (TETA), or tetraethylenepentamine (TEPA). The paper describes the influence of PET surface amination on the mechanical and water-sorption properties. Superficial chemical treatment involves micro-structural changes such as molecular rearrangements in the amorphous and crystalline region respectively, which in turn, are reflected in mechanical properties. The abilities of these materials to resist loads and deformation and also, to absorb energy were affected by the amination of the surfaces. Additionally, the presence of amine groups on the PET surface increases the water sorption capacity. The activation of PET surface using amines leads to producing of new binding sites for collagen immobilization and thus, improves the biocompatibility of this material.