Published online by Cambridge University Press: 21 February 2011
We have investigated the effect of different inorganic substrates on the adhesion of polymer films. We have used crystalline surfaces in an effort to “map” the adhesive interactions that take place through the interface between substrate and polyimide (-arnic acid). Significant differences were found in the adhesion of polyimide films (as measured by peel tests) on substrates varying only in crystalline orientation. Detailed analytical investigations are reported of the interfaces of these substrates after peeling of the film, using angular dependent ESCA. A correlation was found between the chemical nature of the substrate and the adhesion quality. This correlation involves the crystalline matrix of the substrate surface.