Traditional electroplating cannot work without an electrical current. Electroless nickel plating is a chemical-based alternative, providing an effective way to add a protective coating to a metal surface.
What Is Electroless Nickel Plating?
Electroless nickel plating, such as that available at poeton.co.uk/surface-treatments/plating/electroless-nickel-plating, is a way of adding a layer of nickel, usually as an alloy with phosphorus or boron, over a surface known as a substrate. Electroless plating was discovered by accident in the 1840s by a French chemist named Adolphe Wurtz. It did not become commonly used until the 20th century. Copper, silver, gold and palladium are common alternatives to nickel.
For the electroless plating process to work, the surface to be plated is cleaned and prepared. Then it is activated in an acidic solution or sensitizing agent. A plating bath is created containing nickel ions along with various chemicals, including stabilizers and reducing agents. The substrate is immersed in the bath, and autocatalytic deposition begins and is monitored until the plated substrate can be removed, rinsed and dried.
When Is It Used?
Industries that utilise electroless nickel plating include aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, fossil fuels, chemical processing, electronics, food processing, defence and jewellery/luxury goods. It can be used on products ranging from turbine blades to drilling tools, brake pistons to aeroplane landing gear, semiconductor to kitchen appliances, or even components for luxury watches.
What Are Its Advantages?
The most obvious reason to choose electroless plating over electroplating is that it does not require a current but has similar benefits in terms of making the surface stronger and more durable with increased corrosion resistance. The surface is conductive whilst still allowing electromagnetic shielding and in some formulations may be non-magnetic. Another particular advantage is that electroless plating is better than electroplating at ensuring a smooth and even coating. Other methods may leave parts of the plating thinner than others. There is also an aesthetically pleasing finish.
There are many ways to treat a metal surface to enhance its properties. Electroless nickel plating is popular because it offers a range of benefits and is suitable for a variety of industries.
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