In which chemical media is PET nickel plating film prone to corrosion?

In the field of modern materials science, PET (polyethylene terephthalate) nickel plating film is an important surface treatment technology widely used in multiple industries such as electronics, optics, energy, and healthcare. The nickel plating layer not only enhances the conductivity, corrosion resistance, and wear resistance of PET film, but also endows it with multiple functions such as electromagnetic shielding and optical performance improvement. However, even after nickel plating treatment, PET film may still be corroded in certain chemical media. This article will explore the corrosion of PET nickel plating film in different chemical media, and analyze it with the research example of Advanced Institute (Shenzhen) Technology Co., Ltd.

1、 Basic characteristics of PET nickel plated film

The PET nickel plated film is uniformly deposited with a layer of nickel metal on the surface of the PET film through electrochemical or physical vapor deposition methods. This nickel coating not only improves the mechanical properties and chemical stability of the film, but also gives it the potential for use in harsh environments. For example, in the field of aerospace,PET nickel plated filmDue to its excellent high temperature resistance and corrosion resistance, it is often used as insulation material and electromagnetic shielding layer for high-end equipment.

2、 Chemical media that are susceptible to corrosion

1. Inorganic acid

   Inorganic acidsPET nickel plated filmThe corrosion effect is more obvious. The nickel plating layer may be corroded to varying degrees in acidic media such as sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, and hydrofluoric acid. The corrosion rate of sulfuric acid on nickel plating is relatively slow, but caution is still needed. The corrosion effect of hydrochloric acid and hydrofluoric acid on nickel plating is more significant, especially in the presence of oxidant ions (such as NO3-, Fe3, CrO42-, etc.) or when the medium is filled with air, the corrosion rate will further accelerate.

2. organic acid

   Organic acids such as lactic acid and acetic acid have relatively weak corrosion effects on PET nickel plating films, but under prolonged immersion or inflation conditions, the corrosion rate also increases. For example, in a 45% lactic acid solution, the corrosion rate of the nickel plating layer is 2.44 microns/year, while under inflation conditions, the corrosion rate can increase to 39.7 microns/year.

3. Alkali solution

   Although PET film itself is not resistant to hot water and alkali, the nickel plating layer has to some extent improved its alkali resistance. However, in strong alkaline solutions such as sodium hydroxide solution, PET nickel plating film may still be corroded. Especially when there are minor damages or defects in the coating, alkaline solution may penetrate into the interior of PET film, causing hydrolysis or corrosion.

4. oxidant

   The corrosive effect of oxidants on PET nickel plating film cannot be ignored. In an environment containing oxidants, the nickel plating layer may preferentially undergo oxidation reactions, thereby accelerating the corrosion process. For example, in media containing oxidizing ions such as NO3- and Fe3, the corrosion rate of nickel plating will significantly increase.

3、 Research Example of Advanced Institute (Shenzhen) Technology Co., Ltd

Advanced Institute (Shenzhen) Technology Co., Ltd. has conducted systematic testing and evaluation on the chemical stability of PET nickel plating film. Through acid, alkali, and organic solvent resistance tests, the company found that PET nickel plating films can still maintain good integrity and performance stability in high concentration sulfuric acid solutions. In the alkali resistance test,PET nickel plated filmIt also demonstrated better alkali resistance than ordinary PET film. In addition, in some organic chemical reagent environments, such as alcohols, ketones and other organic solvents, PET nickel plating films also exhibit good tolerance.

These research results fully demonstrate that nickel plating has a significant enhancing effect on the chemical stability of PET films. However, it should still be noted that in complex chemical environments, the interface stability between nickel plating and PET film, as well as the performance evolution during long-term use, still need further in-depth research.

4、 Conclusion

PET nickel plating film, as an important surface treatment technology, has broad application prospects in multiple industries. However, in certain chemical media, the nickel plating layer may be subject to varying degrees of corrosion. Therefore, when selecting and using PET nickel plating film, it is necessary to fully understand its chemical stability characteristics and choose suitable coating materials and process parameters according to specific application scenarios. At the same time, strengthen research on its environmental friendliness and sustainability, ensuring that this material meets the requirements of modern society for green and environmentally friendly materials while being widely used.
The above data is for reference only, and specific performance may vary due to production processes and product specifications.