Abstract: Method and apparatus for the metallization of support members, such as paper sheeting and other cellulosic products. A metallic film is transferred to a preheated paper support from a plastic sheet carrier and adhered to the paper by a thermoplastic material. The carrier is typically of stabilized plastic with a releasably adhered film of metal. Separate metallic films may be transferred simultaneously from opposite sides of a preheated plastic sheet carrier to separate, preheated paper supports. Pressure is applied to the composite which is cooled, desirably by chilling, and the carrier stripped away to leave the desired metallic layer on the receiving surface of the paper support.This transfer procedure overcomes the objections associated with metal foil laminates and is particularly suitable for metallizing support members, like paper, which are difficult to metallize directly because they release significant amounts of vapor during conventional vacuum metallization.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for the metallization of support members, such as paper sheeting and other cellulosic products. A metallic film is transferred to the paper support from a plastic sheet carrier and adhered to the paper by a thermoplastic material. The carrier, typically of stabilized plastic with an adhered film of metal and an overlay of thermoplastic adhesive with the paper support. Pressure and/or heat is applied to the composite which is subsequently cooled and the carrier stripped away to leave the desired metallic layer on the receiving surface of the paper support.This transfer procedure overcomes the objections associated with metal foil laminates and is particularly suitable for metallizing support members, like paper, which are difficult to metallize directly because they release significant amounts of vapor during conventional vacuum metallization.