elektrodeposition

Elektrodeposition, more commonly referred to as electrodeposition, deposits a metal coating on a conductive substrate by passing current through an electrolyte of dissolved metal ions. The workpiece is the cathode and a metal anode or soluble source maintains the ion supply. Current reduces metal cations at the surface to form a solid deposit, while the anode may dissolve to replenish ions. Coating thickness and properties depend on current density, time, temperature, agitation, and bath composition. Faraday’s laws link deposited mass to electrical charge.

Electrodeposition is used for decorative coatings and to improve wear, hardness, conductivity, corrosion resistance, or solderability. Common metals include copper, nickel, zinc, chromium, silver, and gold, and alloys such as nickel–phosphorus or nickel–boron, as well as composite coatings with dispersed particles. Applications span electronics (copper interconnects, contacts), automotive and aerospace parts (hard chrome, nickel coatings), jewelry, and microfabrication. Techniques like pulse plating or pulse-reverse plating can improve brightness, levelling, and stress. Bath chemistries vary; cyanide-based baths are common for gold and copper, while acid or alkaline baths are used for nickel and zinc.

Quality control involves substrate cleaning, activation, and masking to regulate thickness and adhesion. Post-treatment may include rinsing, drying, and sometimes heat treatment. Electrodeposition uses hazardous materials and generates chemical waste, so proper handling, ventilation, and waste treatment with regulatory compliance are essential.