sähköpyöräytyksen

Sähköpyöräytys, commonly known as electroplating in English, is a process used to deposit a thin layer of metal onto a substrate using an electric current. This technique is widely employed for decorative purposes, to improve corrosion resistance, enhance wear properties, or to provide electrical conductivity. The fundamental principle involves an electrolytic cell, where the object to be plated acts as the cathode and the plating metal serves as the anode (in some processes, the anode is inert and the plating metal is in the electrolyte solution).

The electrolyte solution contains ions of the metal to be deposited. When a direct current is passed through the solution, positively charged metal ions are attracted to the negatively charged cathode (the object). At the cathode, these ions gain electrons and are reduced to their solid metallic form, depositing onto the surface. The thickness of the deposited layer can be controlled by adjusting the current density, the time of plating, and the concentration of metal ions in the electrolyte.

Commonly electroplated metals include chromium, nickel, copper, zinc, gold, and silver. Each metal offers distinct properties and applications. For instance, zinc plating provides excellent corrosion protection for steel, while chromium plating is known for its hardness and aesthetic appeal. Electroplating is a crucial industrial process used in various sectors, including automotive, electronics, jewelry, and hardware manufacturing. Proper handling of electrolytes and waste products is essential due to the chemical nature of the process.