Development of a Generic Method to Metallize Plastics

Abstract

A simple, generic method that does not require any specialized equipment has been developed to metallize plastics. The method takes advantage of the unusually strong affinity of poly (diaminequinone) polymers (PAQs) towards metals. It is based on the principle of interpenetrating polymer networks, which is realized by coating plastics with a PAQ solution in an appropriate solvent. The PAQ film is allowed to become tacky, metal or alloy powder - 20 цm to 100 mesh - is sprinkled over the tacky PAQ and the composite thus formed is allowed to dry completely, followed by heat cure. The metallic layer is held very firmly, it can be polished mechanically, withstands immersion in water for prolonged periods. All metallic films conduct electricity to some degree and conductance of the film can be increased by immersing the composite into a copper sulfate solution The method can be used with both regular and engineering plastics, the two plastics that could not be coated so far are Teflon and polypropylene.