Elektroaflejring

Elektroaflejring, also known as electrodeposition or electroplating, is an electrochemical process used to deposit a thin layer of metal onto a conductive object. This is achieved by immersing the object to be coated, designated as the cathode, in an electrolytic solution containing ions of the desired plating metal. A separate electrode, the anode, is also placed in the solution. When an electric current is applied, metal ions from the solution are attracted to the cathode, where they gain electrons and deposit as a solid metal coating.

The purpose of elektroaflejring is varied. It is commonly used to enhance the appearance of objects, such as decorative plating on jewelry or automotive parts. It can also improve functionality, for example, by increasing corrosion resistance with a layer of zinc or chromium, or by improving electrical conductivity with a copper or gold coating. Wear resistance can be enhanced with hard chrome plating. The thickness and uniformity of the deposited layer are controlled by factors such as current density, plating time, temperature, and the composition of the electrolyte. Common metals used for electrodeposition include gold, silver, copper, nickel, chromium, zinc, and cadmium. The process requires careful control of parameters to ensure a high-quality and adherent coating.