Ecologically important metallization processes for high-performance polymers

Various high-temperature polymer materials were preconditoned by wet-chemic al methods and ion-assisted plasma processes, respectively. The polymer sur faces were investigated by SEM, AFM and stylus profilometry. The adhesion s trength was controlled by a peel test. Measurement of the specific electric al conductivity, helium gas tightness and soldering experiments provide val uable information concerning possible applications. Using wet-chemical meth ods, filler particles like mineral compounds are normally dissolved complet ely. A mechanical anchoring in remaining holes provides peel strength value s of more than 1 N mm(-1) after thermal ageing. In contrast to this, plasma -etching processes attack the polymer material preferentially. Therefore, m ineral particles must still adhere strongly to the polymer to provide mecha nical adhesion sites for the metal layers. An adhesion strength of about 1 N mm(-1) was obtained likewise on different substrate materials. (C) 1999 E lsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.