Polyethylene and polypropylene surface modification by impregnation with manganese (IV) oxide

Polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) surfaces can be modified by impregnation with manganese dioxide, either pure or mixed with iron(III) and copper(II) oxides. This is done by immersion of polymer tubing or film in (acidic or alkaline) potassium permanganate aqueous solutions, at 50–80°C. The oxide deposits thus obtained are highly adherent to the polymer surface and resistant to mild (cloth, paper) abrasion. These polymer—oxide composites were studied by electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy. ESR spectra of samples obtained under various conditions showed differences, depending on the preparation technique used and on the sample age. Spectral characteristics of the oxides indicate that the total amount and local concentration of Mn 2+ ions in the oxides can vary, depending on the preparation procedure.