What is electroplating?

Electroplating is a process of depositing a thin layer of metal onto the surface of an object using an electric current. It is a common technique used to enhance the appearance, protect against corrosion, improve conductivity, and provide other desirable properties to the object being plated.

In electroplating, the object to be plated, known as the substrate or the cathode, is immersed in a solution containing metal ions of the desired plating material. The solution, called the electrolyte, also contains a metal anode, which acts as a source of the metal ions. When an electric current is passed through the electrolyte, metal ions from the anode are attracted to the cathode and get reduced, forming a layer of metal on its surface.

The process involves several steps, including cleaning and preparing the substrate, applying a conductive coating, immersing it in the electrolyte, and controlling the current and voltage to achieve the desired thickness and quality of the plated layer. Common metals used for electroplating include gold, silver, nickel, copper, chromium, and zinc.

Electroplating finds applications in various industries, such as automotive, electronics, jewelry, aerospace, and decorative items. It is widely used to provide a decorative finish, improve durability, prevent corrosion, reduce friction, and enhance conductivity in a wide range of products.