Embedded cluster metal-polymeric micro interface and process for producing the same
US6342307B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 24, 1997 |
| Grant date | Jan 29, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 24, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T428/31681
- WIPO fieldSurface technology, coating
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A micro interface between a polymeric layer and a metal layer includes isolated clusters of metal partially embedded in the polymeric layer. The exposed portion of the clusters is smaller than embedded portions, so that a cross section, taken parallel to the interface, of an exposed portion of an individual cluster is smaller than a cross section, taken parallel to the interface, of an embedded portion of the individual cluster. At least half, but not all of the height of a preferred spherical cluster is embedded. The metal layer is completed by a continuous layer of metal bonded to the exposed portions of the discontinuous clusters. The micro interface is formed by heating a polymeric layer to a temperature, near its glass transition temperature, sufficient to allow penetration of the layer by metal clusters, after isolated clusters have been deposited on the layer at lower temperatures. The layer is recooled after embedding, and a continuous metal layer is deposited upon the polymeric layer to bond with the discontinuous metal clusters.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.