Electroless copper coating of epoxide plates in an ultrasonic field

This paper reports the study of ultrasonic irradiation effects on electroless copper coating on an epoxide resin. Several parameters were monitored, such as plating rates, practical adhesion and internal stress, versus varying acoustic powers at a constant frequency of 530 kHz. Exposure conditions were characterised by both transmitted power and interfacial mass transfer coefficients. Optimum conditions expressed in irradiation time and power were determined. The use of ultrasound during electroless copper plating affects the plating rates and the deposits properties, particularly the practical adhesion which increases whereas the internal stress decreases. Then, the changes in the coating mechanisms are discussed.