Surface modification of silicone medical materials by plasma-based ion implantation

Silicone (polydimethylsiloxane) sheets and tubes for medical use were irradiated with inert gas ions using plasma-based ion implantation (PBII). The affinity of the surface with tissue examined by an animal test was improved by the irradiation at optimal conditions. The cell attachment percentage increased at an applied voltage of less than -7.5 kV; however, it decreased at higher voltage. The specimens irradiated at higher voltages were more hydrophobic than unirradiated specimens. The surface became rough with increasing voltage and textures, and small domains appeared. This effect was caused by different etching speeds in the amorphous and crystalline areas. (C) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.