Teräskromiini

Teräskromiini is a Finnish term that translates to "steel chrome" and refers to a decorative and protective metal coating. It is commonly applied to various metal surfaces, most notably to steel, to enhance their appearance and provide a barrier against corrosion. The process typically involves electroplating a layer of chromium onto a base metal, often after a layer of nickel has been applied.

The resulting finish is characterized by its bright, reflective, and hard surface. This aesthetic quality has made teräskromiini a popular choice for automotive parts, household appliances, plumbing fixtures, and decorative items. Beyond its visual appeal, the chromium layer offers significant durability, resisting scratches, tarnishing, and wear from everyday use.

The thickness of the chromium layer can vary depending on the application, with thicker coatings providing greater resistance to corrosion. While often associated with a silver-like sheen, chromium plating can also achieve different finishes, including matte or satin, though the bright, mirror-like finish is the most common perception of teräskromiini. The process requires careful control of chemical baths and electrical currents to ensure a uniform and adherent coating.