Innovative Pre‐Treatment for Fabrication of Conductive PMIA Fibers via Electroless Nickel Plating

Abstract

To achieve the admirable electrically conductivity without sacrificing the outstanding integrated performance of meta‐aramid fibers is still a challenge. A novel method is developed for fabricating of electrically conductive poly (m‐phenylene isophthalamide) (PMIA) fibers in this paper. Firstly, the metal silver nanoparticles are deposited on the surface of PMIA fibers by simply dipping the fibers into a mixed aqueous suspension of dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) and nano silver sol. Then, the silver nanoparticles, depositing on the surface of the PMIA fibers, are functioned as the catalyst for the subsequent procedure of electroless nickel deposition together with the anchor for the coating layer. Followed by electroless nickel plating, homogeneous and dense nickel‐coated PMIA fibers are obtained. And the properties and structures of nickel‐coated PMIA fibers are investigated systematically, the electrical resistance of the nickel‐coated PMIA fibers is measured using the multimeter. Without any post‐treatment, the electrical resistance of the modified PMIA fibers can be as low as 5.5 Ω cm−1. Meanwhile, outstanding mechanical performances of pure PMIA fibers are well maintained. This study also demonstrates the necessity of adding a small amount of DMAB as an auxiliary reducing agent. This approach may be equally applicable to fabricate conductive coatings on other polymer materials.