Electroplating

What is Electroplating?

Electroplating is the hydrolysis-based plating of one metal onto another, most typically for ornamental purposes or to prevent metal corrosion. Copper plating, silver plating, and chromium plating are examples of specific forms of electroplating.

What are the Applications of Electroplating?

Applications of Electroplating are:

1. Prevention of Rust
2. Chromium Plating of various objects such as bath taps, automobile bumpers, and others.
3. Silver Plating of Flatware and Jewelry.
4. Tin cans are created by electroplating Tin onto Iron.

What is Chromium Plating?

The chromium plating process is an electroplating method for depositing a thin layer of chromium onto a substrate (metal or alloy). 

Chromium Electroplating is accomplished by sending an eectric current between two electrodes immersed in a chromic acid electrolyte bath. The substrate to be coated will be cathode. Chromium atoms are deposited in a layer on the electrode to be plated during the flow of electricity between the two electrodes.

Which of Chromium’s Properties makes it suitable for Electroplating?

Chromium is a corrosive-resistant metal, but other metals, such as steel, corrode readily when exposed to damp air.

What are the Advantages of Electroplating?

The following are some of the benefits of electroplating :

1. Corrosion resistance: a corrosion-prone substance, such as iron, can be protected by a coating of non-corrosive material.
2. Decorative items: otherwise dull surfaces can be given a gleam and sheen. This can be used as a decorative piece.
3. Less expensive decorations: instead of utilizing gold or silver, ornaments can be made out of less expensive metals and then electroplated with gold. This significantly lowers the cost of ornaments.
4. Improving mechanical properties: Electroplating can also help metals improve their mechanical properties.

What are the Disadvantages of Electroplating?

The following are some of the disadvatages of electroplating :

1. Non-uniform plating: electroplating may or may not be uniform, resulting in a plated material with a poor appearance.
2. The technique is both expensive and time-consuming.
3. Pollution potential: after usage, the electroplating solution must be disposed of carefully, posing a threat to the environment.

What are the Factors Affecting Electroplating?

Factors affecting electroplating are:

1. surface area of the electrodes,
2. temperature
3. kind of metal and
4. electrolyte utilized, and
5. amplitude of applied current

Electroplating refers to the process of coating a metal onto another metal or alloy with the help of an electric current. It is also known as electrochemical deposition or electrodeposition.

Let’s learn the electroplating process in detail, including its working principle, advantages, examples and uses.