Abstract: A method of forming a coating on a substrate surface which coating comprises SiOx groups by plasma treatment of the surface, wherein the substrate comprises a blend of an organic polymeric material and an organosilicon-containing additive which is substantially non-miscible with the organic polymeric material. The organic polymeric material preferably comprises a poly-olefin, and the organosilicon-containing additive preferably comprises polydimethylsiloxane, &agr;,&ohgr;-dihydroxypolydimethylsiloxane, &agr;,&ohgr;-divinylpolydimethylsiloxane, or a copolymer of polydimethylsiloxane and polyethylene. The plasma treatment may comprise oxygen-containing gas plasma treatment, and the substrate is preferably heated and the plasma pulsed during plasma treatment. The method can enhance the surface barrier, antioxidant and/or the adhesive properties of the substrate.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the composition and preparation of composite films which exhibit low oxygen and flavor/aroma transmission rates. The film comprises a silane resin coated on a plastic substrate. The silane resin is formed from the mixture of a silane solution, an acrylate, a solvent, and optionally, either an additive, water or both. This invention teaches that a variety of silane solutions and acrylates may be mixed with different solvents to achieve the desired oxygen and flavor/aroma barrier characteristics.