Wetting ability modifications in biocompatible polymers induced by pulsed lasers

Wetting ability was measured in the surface of different biocompatible polymers, such as mylar, polyethylene, poly-methyl-methacrylate and teflon. Nanosecond pulse lasers at intensities of the order of 10(8) W/cm(2) were employed at different doses to irradiate the polymeric surfaces and to induce wetting ability modifications due to the chemical and physical surface changes vs. irradiation time and laser wavelength. In particular, the contact angle as a function of the surface roughness was investigated, as will be presented and discussed.