Photoelectron spectroscopy is a efficently method for analytics also of plastics and other polymer materials.

With this method the semiquantitative element composition (beginning with lithium) of surfaces can be determinated.The method is extremly surface sensitive (~ 5 nm).

Additionally to the determination of the chemicaly element consistence simple statements for bonding conditions are possible , for example polarity of carbon bonds or oxydation state of metallic/oxidic functional coatings.

Also is suitable XPS (X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy) / ESCA (Electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis) specific to investigation of plastics with thin coatings or surface treatments.

Fore example it is possible to evaluate the effect of corona or plasma treatments. The investigation at the last treatments is relativ contemporary because the long time stability is bounded. At fluorination, which with XPS is very good quantifiable, the contemporary investigation is not nessesary.

The method is being qualified for qualitative proofe of minimally contaminations or migration layers on the surface and is there fore often use at exploration of problems with wetting or adhesive strength .

Because the measurement have to be done in UHV (ultra high vacuum),the samples must be vacuum resistant. Is is importemt to know investigation of soft PVC is possible and useful. It is heeded, that easy volatile compounds are not determinated and migration prozesses of ingredients oh the surface are fortifying .