Surface modification of polymers can significantly affect their hydrophilicity and adhesion properties. By altering the surface chemistry, morphology, or introducing new functional groups, the interactions between the polymer surface and its environment can be tailored to achieve desired properties.1. Hydrophilicity: The hydrophilicity of a polymer surface refers to its affinity for water or its ability to form hydrogen bonds with water molecules. Surface modification can increase or decrease the hydrophilicity of a polymer, depending on the desired application.- Introducing polar functional groups: By grafting or incorporating polar functional groups such as hydroxyl -OH , carboxyl -COOH , or amine -NH2 onto the polymer surface, the hydrophilicity can be increased. These polar groups can form hydrogen bonds with water molecules, increasing the polymer's affinity for water.- Plasma treatment: Exposing the polymer surface to plasma can create reactive species that can introduce polar functional groups or alter the surface morphology, increasing the hydrophilicity.- Surface roughness: Increasing the surface roughness of a polymer can also increase its hydrophilicity. Rough surfaces have a larger surface area, which can promote more interactions with water molecules.2. Adhesion properties: The adhesion properties of a polymer surface refer to its ability to bond or stick to other materials. Surface modification can improve or tailor the adhesion properties of a polymer for specific applications.- Introducing reactive functional groups: By introducing reactive functional groups such as isocyanate -NCO , epoxy, or silane groups onto the polymer surface, the adhesion properties can be improved. These reactive groups can form covalent bonds with other materials, leading to strong adhesion.- Surface roughness: As with hydrophilicity, increasing the surface roughness of a polymer can improve its adhesion properties. Rough surfaces have a larger surface area and can create mechanical interlocking with other materials, leading to stronger adhesion.- Surface energy: Modifying the surface energy of a polymer can also affect its adhesion properties. By increasing the surface energy, the polymer surface becomes more compatible with other materials, promoting better adhesion.In summary, surface modification of polymers can significantly affect their hydrophilicity and adhesion properties. By introducing new functional groups, altering surface chemistry, or changing the surface morphology, the interactions between the polymer surface and its environment can be tailored to achieve desired properties for various applications.