Fabrication of Copper Patterns on Flexible Substrate by Patterning–Adsorption–Plating Process

A novel patterning-adsorption-plating process to additively fabricate copper patterns is developed. Functional ink with ion-adsorption nanoparticles was inkjet printed on PET substrate to form the patterned adsorption film. Catalytic ion was adsorbed by amino groups in the adsorption film, and catalyzed the electroless plating of copper. The mercapto groups introduced to the film enhance the reliability of the patterns. Specific solvent used in the ink increase the surface roughness of the adsorption film, leading to a better adhesion of the patterns. The prepared copper patterns show excellent conductivity about the same with bulk copper and good adhesion on PET.