Adhesion problems with metallic inspections

The quality of paintwork and metallization on plastic surfaces depends largely on the properties of the surface to be coated.

Residues of mold release agents and cleaning fluids…
Migration of plasticizers to the surface or…
Trace contamination with lubricants…

…even the smallest traces can lead to considerable adhesion problems and even large-scale delamination. Using highly sensitive surface analysis techniques (such as the TOF-SIMS method), such trace contaminants can be detected and identified. In this way, sources of error can be quickly localized and eliminated.

TOF-SIMS spectrum recorded in the defect of a chrome plating on an injection molded part

Example: Furniture knobs and cabinet handles are often made of plastic and then electroplated with a decorative metal coating. The metal layer always peels off due to insufficient adhesion to the plastic surface. For the manufacturer, the question now arises as to whether the fault lies in incorrect treatment during metallization or is caused during the production of the blanks. A TOF-SIMS microanalysis within the defect (Fig. top right) detects contamination with release agents (EBS / PDMS). As these are only used during demoulding, the fault could be traced back to inadequate cleaning before metallization. The error was permanently eliminated by making minor changes to the production process.