Preparation of conductive layer on polyimide ion-track membrane by Ar ion implantation

We implanted polyimide (PI) ion-track membranes with 100 keV Ar+ to prepare a cathode for the galvanic deposition of platinum (Pt) nanocones. The surface layer of the irradiated PI films was carbonized to produce a graphitic structure at a fluence of 7.6 × 1016 ions/cm2. The carbonized surface exhibited an electric conductivity and electrochemical stability, which could be sufficient for use as a cathode. Pt nanocones were electrodeposited into the pores of the PI ion-track membrane after the implantation under the same conditions. This indicated that the Ar+ irradiation resulted in the preparation of a conductive layer on the total surface area of the ion-track membrane including the innermost regions of the pores. •Polyimide ion-track membranes were irradiated with 100 keV argon ions (Ar+).•The surface of the membranes became conductive due to carbonization.•The Ar+-irradiated surface was employed as an electrode for electrodeposition.•Platinum nanocones were electrodeposited into the pores of the membrane.