Comparative Study of Natural Terpenoid Precursors in Reactive Plasmas for Thin Film Deposition |
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| Authors: | Daniel S Grant Jakaria Ahmed Jason D Whittle Andrew Michelmore Krasimir Vasilev Kateryna Bazaka Mohan V Jacob |
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| Institution: | 1.College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia; (D.S.G.); (J.A.); (K.B.);2.UniSA STEM, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes Campus, Adelaide, SA 5095, Australia; (J.D.W.); (A.M.); (K.V.);3.School of Engineering, College of Engineering and Computer Science, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2600, Australia |
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| Abstract: | If plasma polymer thin films are to be synthesised from sustainable and natural precursors of chemically heterogeneous composition, it is important to understand the extent to which this composition influences the mechanism of polymerisation. To this end, a well-studied monoterpene alcohol, terpinen-4-ol, has been targeted for a comparative study with the naturally occurring mix of terpenes (viz. Melaleuca alternifolia oil) from which it is commonly distilled. Positive ion mode mass spectra of both terpinen-4-ol and M. alternifolia oil showed a decrease in disparities between the type and abundance of cationic species formed in their respective plasma environments as applied plasma power was increased. Supplementary biological assay revealed the antibacterial action of both terpinen-4-ol and M. alternifolia derived coatings with respect to S. aureus bacteria, whilst cytocompatibility was demonstrated by comparable eukaryotic cell adhesion to both coatings. Elucidating the processes occurring within the reactive plasmas can enhance the economics of plasma polymer deposition by permitting use of the minimum power, time and precursor pre-processing required to control the extent of monomer fragmentation and fabricate a film of the desired thickness and functionality. |
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| Keywords: | plasma polymerisation thin films natural precursors tea tree oil |
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