Copper-Electroplating of Biodegradable PCL Nanofiber Mats

Abstract

In this study, biodegradable polycaprolactone (PCL) nanofibers were copper (Cu) electroplated in a more environmentally friendly bath compared to conventional electroplating baths. The Cu-plating mechanism and determination of the optimum parameters for the production of Cu-plated PCL nanofiber mats were explained. PCL nanofibers were produced on metal frames by electrospinning. Cu-electroplating needs a conductive surface. To provide this, a gold/palladium mixing was sputtered on the PCL samples with different sputtering thicknesses. After determining the minimum sputtering thickness, the samples were Cu-plated for 1,3,5 and 30 minutes in the electroplating bath. Surface properties of the samples were evaluated after nanofiber production, Au/Pd sputtering and electroplating, respectively. Elemental analyses, mapping and electrical characterizations were also performed after electroplating. The Cu-coated areas gave a sheet resistance in the range of milliohms indicating a highly conductive structure. Every step of the study is described in detail to provide insight for further studies.