Copper-plated catalytic - how to put metal on plastic.

The catalytic copper plating method is a process that enables the metallization of non-metallic surfaces, including dielectrics and even plastic. The process consists in sputtering the prepared dielectric surface with two working solutions A and B. The previously activated surface is covered with copper as a result of its reduction when the working liquids A and B meet on the copper-plated surface. Reduction takes place only on the activated and previously prepared work surface. Activation can be done, for example, with palladium. The purpose of activating, sensitizing the surface of the plastic is to deposit small amounts of precious metal on it. The palladium isolated in this way is a catalyst in the chemical copper plating process. The applied copper coating can be the basis for further processing, e.g. galvanic copper plating. The galvanic copper plating process is much more efficient and enables the application of much thicker layers of metal. Unfortunately, electroplating is not possible on non-conductive surfaces.
Sensitization can be done, for example, in a palladium salt solution with the following composition:

- Distilled water (pure) 1 l
- Palladium (II) chloride (pure) 0.2 g/l
- Hydrochloric acid (pure) (d=1.19) 10 ml/l

After activation, the item should be thoroughly cleaned by rinsing it in distilled water and then, very carefully, rinse it in cold running water for at least a minute. Trying to ensure that the water reaches the entire surface that is to be subjected to the metallization process.

The object prepared in this way can be subjected to the copper plating process using working baths with the following composition:

Working liquid A:

- Sulfuric acid (VI) (d=1.84) 50 ml/l

Working fluid B:

Catalytic copper plating can also be performed in baths that do not require elevated working temperatures and application by spraying.
An example of such a bath, efficient at room temperature, is also a two-component bath:

Working liquid A:

Working fluid B:

- Formaldehyde (40% solution)

Copper sulfate , sodium hydroxide , hydrochloric acid and distilled water available at distripark.com .

*This article is for informational purposes only. The presented description, in particular the use of the products, is exemplary and constitutes non-binding information about the characteristics and possibilities of their use/application. In any case, before using the product, consult a specialist whether the specific use is safe and justified. We do not bear any responsibility for the use of the proposed solutions, even in very similar situations.