Conductive regenerated cellulose fibers by electroless plating

Abstract

Continuousmetalizedregeneratedcellulose fibers for advancedapplications (e.g.,multi-functional composites) are produced by electroless copper plating. Copper is successfully deposited on the surface of cellulose fibersusingcommercial cyanide-free electroless copperplatingpackages commonlyavailable for the manufacturing of printed wiring boards. The deposited copper was found to enhance the thermal stability, electrical conductivity and resistance to moisture uptake of the fibers. On the other hand, the chemistry involved in plating altered themolecular structure of the fibers, as was indicated by the degradation of their mechanical performance (tensile strength andmodulus).