Electroplating of micro-patterned tools via replication of silicone rubber forms

摘要

A two-step replication process is described, allowing the non-destructive reproduction of micro-patterned tools. The first step comprises the embedding of the original part into silicone resin, the resin curing, and the separation of the part from the silicone rubber. The outstanding plasticity and the weak adherence of silicone rubber to most substrate materials facilitate retaining the original part. The second replication step, electroforming, requires silicone rubber metallization and contacting. The demonstrated technique is qualified mainly due to successful precautions against replication artifacts, related to silicone rubber deformability.