Preparation and properties of electromagnetic interference shielding poly(ethylene terephthalate) fabrics by the electroless deposition method

The electroless deposition method has been employed to metallize poly(ethylene terephthalate)(PET) fabrics for electromagnetic interference shielding.The surface etching of PET fabrics by 20 g/L NaOH was evaluated,and its effects on electroless deposition properties were investigated.The morphology and thickness of the deposition layer were determined by scanning electron microscopy.The adhesion between the deposition and fabric was also studied by wet grinding experiments.Although the deposition layer is bright,uniform and has good adhesion to the PET fabric substrate using conventional surface treatments,alkali pre-treatment for 2 to 3 hours results in firmer adhesion between the deposition and fabric and thus improves the wearing properties.