Metallized film is a material in which a thin layer of metal is deposited on the surface of a plastic film. It has good electrical conductivity, shielding and optical reflectivity, and is widely used in electronic, electrical, packaging and decorative fields. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the different types of metallized films, as well as their properties, applications and advantages.
According to different classification criteria, metallized films can be classified into 4 types
- Classification by type of substrate
Polyester (PET) metallized films: with good heat resistance and dielectric properties, they are suitable for making capacitors, electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials, etc.
Polypropylene (PP) metallized films: good heat resistance and mechanical strength, suitable for capacitors, cables, etc.
Polyethylene (PE) metallized film: Good transparency and flexibility, suitable for packaging materials and decorative materials.
Others: Metallized films of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polycarbonate (PC), polyimide (PI) and other substrates. - Classified by metallization process
Vacuum evaporation: The metal is heated and evaporated, and then deposited onto the surface of the substrate. This method has good uniformity and adhesion, but the cost is high.
Sputtering: Utilizing ion bombardment of the metal target to sputter metal atoms onto the surface of the substrate. This method has high productivity but is costly.
Chemical Plating: Deposits metal on the surface of the substrate using a chemical reaction. This method is less costly, but the uniformity and adhesion are not as good as vacuum vapor deposition and sputtering. - Categorized by application areas
Packaging: used to make food packaging, pharmaceutical packaging, cosmetic packaging.
Electronic and electrical appliances: used to make capacitors, electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials, cables, conductive ink.
Decoration: used to make wallpaper, ceiling, curtains, clothing and so on. - Other types
Double-sided metallized film: refers to the film coated with a metal layer on both sides.
Single-sided metallized film: refers to a film with a metal layer plated on one side only.
Patterned Metallized Film: A film in which the metal layer forms a specific pattern.
Selection of Metallized Films
The following factors need to be considered when selecting metallized films:
Substrate type: Selection of a suitable substrate based on application requirements.
Metallization process: Select the appropriate process based on cost and performance requirements.
Metal type: Select the appropriate metal based on application requirements.
Thickness: Select the appropriate thickness according to application requirements.
Future Development of Metallized Films
With the development of science and technology, the application areas of metallized films will continue to expand. In the future, metallized films will develop in the following directions:
High-performance: Improve the conductivity, shielding and optical reflectivity of metallized films.
Functionalization: the development of metallized films with special functions, such as anti-static, antibacterial, thermal conductivity.
Greening: development of more environmentally friendly metallized film production process.
Conclusion
Metallized thin film is an important functional material with a wide range of applications. Understanding the types, options and development trends of metallized films can help us to better select and use this material. With the continuous development and innovation of science and technology, it is believed that metallized thin films will show their great potential in more fields and make greater contributions to the progress and development of human society.