Abstract: A process for the metallization of a plastic by electroless deposition, wherein the plastic surface is contacted with a solution useful for the treatment of oxidant residue following contact of the surface with an oxidizing solution such as a hexavalent chromium or permanganate solution. In one embodiment, the solution comprises a reducing agent, a pH adjuster and a surface active agent in a concentration sufficient to reduce the surface tension of the solution preferably to 50 dynes per square centimeter or less at the operating temperature of the solution. In a second embodiment, the solution consists essentially of the surface active agent in a concentration sufficient to achieve the above surface tension range.

Abstract: A process for the metallization of a plastic by electroless deposition, wherein the plastic surface is contacted with a solution useful for the treatment of oxidant residue following contact of the surface with an oxidizing solution such as a hexavalent chromium or permanganate solution. The solution comprises a reducing agent, a pH adjuster and a surface active agent in a concentration sufficient to reduce the surface tension of the solution preferably to 50 dynes per square centimeter or less at the operating temperature of the solution.