The authoritative public forum
  for Metal Finishing since 1989
  

  -----

Aluminum metallizing on HIPS

1999

I am doing vacuum metallizing that coats aluminum on plastic parts/products.

Currently I am using 2 components PU-resin (toluene based solvent)as the base-coat.

However, I have problem with HiPS (High Impact Polystyrene) products. The products becomes very roughened.

It cannot stand touluene.

It can only stand SBP (special Boiling Point).

Can any one help me on the right type of base coat ?

Thanks,

irwan nusantara
- indonesia

---

Try finding a base-coat that uses a non-organic solvent. Toluene and polystyrene are both organic materials, so toluene will tend to dissolve the plastic. That's the only advice I can give. I know some chemistry, but I am new to the finishing industry.

Tim Neveau
Rochester Hills, Michigan
1999