Perfluoroalkylation of Polyurethane Membranes and Their Surface Characteristics

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Abstract
Two fluoroalkylating agents, 2-aminomethyl-1,1,2,3,3,4,4-H-perfluorodo- decanol and perfluorodecanoic acid, were used to modify the surfaces of polyurethane membranes and their fluoroalkylation efficiencies were compared. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy showed that all the modified samples contained fluorine and that the amino alcohol-treated polyurethane had a slightly higher surface fluorine content than the perfluorodecanoic acid-treated one. Both the modifier concentration and the treatment time had no significant effect on the amount of fluorine incorporated. Evidence for fluorine incorporation was also provided by reflection infrared spectroscopy. Contact angle measurements indicated that the modified microporous membranes were both water- and oil-repellent and may, therefore, be used in protective clothing applications where good liquid barrier properties are desirable.