| abstract |
Electrically and/or thermally conductive reinforced compositions convertible to reinforced components are disclosed. The compositions comprise a polymeric material of little or no conductivity and high strength, metal plated composite fibers having a conductive semimetallic core and a thin, firmly adhered layer of an electrodepositable metal coating on said core. The metal coated composite fibers will not lose their conductive coatings during normal processing and provide conductivity without reducing the physical properties of the polymeric material. The compositions of the invention are convertible to conductive components such as laminate prepregs, surface plys for laminates, conductive adhesives, conductive inks, and conductive elastomeric gaskets. The components can be incorporated in improved articles such as structural parts for transportation vehicles, printed circuit boards, lighting shields and molded articles. |