Surface modification of SiC to improve joint strength via a Corona plasma treatment

The high mechanical and chemical properties of SiC make it difficult to texture and modify its surface using such conventional methods as mechanical machining and wet etching. Among possible alternative strategies, Atmospheric Pressure Plasmas (APPs) could be used, cutting cost and time, but much still has to be understood about their feasibility for the surface treatment of ceramic materials. In this work, the effectiveness of a commercial corona discharge system in modifying the surface of SiC has been evaluated, focusing on its positive effect on the joint strength of adhesively bonded plasma-treated SiC. The objective of the study has been to observe the surface changes, in terms of chemical composition and texture, that take place as a result of exposure to corona plasma and to compare the obtained results with previous studies on laser and low-pressure plasma textured SiC samples. These very first results, derived from characterization and mechanical testing, suggest that this approach could be a promising alternative.