Silver Coating Various Materials

AI Thread Summary
Mirrors are traditionally created by coating glass with tin and silver, but the discussion explores the possibility of using alternative materials, such as fiberglass and fabric, for similar applications. The feasibility of achieving a smooth finish necessary for a mirror-like effect on these materials is questioned. A specific interest is noted in the Tollens silvering process, with speculation that it may work effectively on cotton fabric. A reference to a scientific article is provided, although the reflective quality of the results remains uncertain.
Atomic_Sheep
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Hi, mirrors are made by coating glass with tin and then silver. I was wondering whether it would be possible to coat other materials with silver e.g. fibreglass? Assuming of course that an appropriate smooth finish could be achieved that would produce a mirror like finish in the end.
 
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I wonder if a Tollens type silver process could be used on a fabric. Interesting idea. I'll bet it works best on a cotton type fabric. Oh wait! http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S014486171100885X Not sure how reflective it is though.
 

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