Many plastics can be coated with different metals or metal alloys. This takes place either through an electrolytic (chemical) process using electricity and various baths or through various processes in a vacuum. In both cases, the layers are relatively thin; from a few µm (millionths of a meter) to around 100 nano (billionths) of a meter. In a vacuum, e.g., aluminum is vaporized with different energy sources. The aluminum gas then condenses on the plastic. The vacuum is needed because it lowers the evaporation temperature, prevents oxidation, and provides a more even spread of the coating. Depending on the metal/alloy and layer thickness, surfaces are created for decorative or optical purposes, for electromagnetic shielding or to protect plastic surfaces.
Metallising – PVD
Specialists in vacuum metallising since 1973
Physical vapour deposition (PVD) is often used as a generic term for various thin-film metal coatings applied under vacuum. Of the various techniques used, AMB applies vacuum metallising. One or more metals are vaporised under a vacuum and the vapour cloud formed then condenses on the substrate, i.e. the part intended for coating.
Thin coating or “thick” is determined by the purpose
We coat various plastics with a thin layer of aluminium or nickel chrome alloy to achieve different effects. Coating thickness varies between around 80 nm to 5 µm, depending on the effect or function to be achieved. AMB uses the method for decorative, reflective, and shielding purposes. Reflective and decorative surfaces are achieved using coating thicknesses below 100 nm. The mirror-like surface can then be used for different types of reflectors. The mirror surface itself is decorative but can also be combined with various tinted or special pigmented lacquers for very fine gloss or matte metallic effects. Silver, gold, chrome or anodised effects are some of our customers’ most popular choices. Coating thicknesses approaching 5 µm are used in the case of EMC and other shielding.
Eco-friendly technology
PVD coatings are resource-efficient and eco-friendly due to the very thin layers and because no environmentally harmful baths or solvents are used. The technique should not be confused with electroplating or chrome plating, which are both electrolytic processes.