METHODS OF THERMOFORMING NON-SELF-SUPPORTING POLYMERIC FILMS AND ARTICLES MADE THEREFROM

摘要

A thermoforming method and objects prepared using the thermoforming method are described. Non-self- supporting, polymeric films are initially formed into a three-dimensional shaped film on a male mold and then transferred to a female mold while being supported by the male mold. The three-dimensional shaped film can be further thermoformed, reinforced, or a combination thereof on the female mold. The resulting object has a substantially uniform thickness across a major surface. The method can preserve the surface quality of the polymeric film used to prepare the three-dimensional objects.