ASSIGNMENT
NAME:J TRIVIKRAM RASSO
[Link]:22EEB0A69
SUBJECT:ENGINEERING CHEMISTRY
TOPIC:
ELECTROPLATING AND
ELECTROLESS PLATING
PLATING
Plating is a process used to enhance and safeguard a substrate by
applying a layer of metal, which increases its strength and reduces
the risk of corrosion over time. There are various plating methods
available, and the choice depends on the desired outcome and the
intended use of the plated component. Two commonly used
techniques are electroplating and electroless plating.
ELECTROPLATING
Electroplating involves the movement of metal ions through a
solution from a positive electrode (anode) to a negative electrode
(cathode). When an electrical current flows across the workpiece at
the cathode, the metal ions in the solution deposit onto its surface.
In electroplating, a chemical solution containing the metal in an
ionized state is often used. By applying a positive charge to the metal
component (anode) and a negative charge to the workpiece
(cathode), an electrical current is created, resulting in a change in the
part's chemical composition and the formation of a solid, protective
coating on the metal's surface. Electroplating requires careful
handling due to the use of potentially hazardous equipment and
complex filtration systems.
Electroplating is a cost-effective method for enhancing the properties
of the base material. Plating protects the underlying material through
two mechanisms:
1. Sacrificial Protection: Metals such as Zinc and Cadmium provide
sacrificial protection by corroding preferentially to the substrate they
cover. This occurs because they are generally more reactive than the
underlying substrate material.
2. Mechanical Protection: Metals like Copper, Nickel, Chromium, Tin,
and many others offer mechanical protection by forming a protective
barrier as long as the coating remains intact.
In summary, electroplating is an effective way to improve and
safeguard substrates by applying a layer of metal. It can provide
sacrificial or mechanical protection, depending on the choice of
plating material. However, electroplating requires careful handling
and adherence to specific procedures due to the involvement of
electricity and the potential risks associated with the process.
ELECTROLYTE NATURE USED IN THE PROCESS:
The outcome of electroplating is influenced by temperature, which
plays a crucial role. Lower temperatures lead to the formation of
small metallic crystals as the electrolyte solution generated by the
electrodes takes shape. Conversely, higher temperatures yield much
larger crystals in the plating process.
DENSITY OF DEPOSITION IS ONE OF THE MAJOR FACTOR:
So based on current density (either it’s low or high), the final
appearance of the deposition would be decided. The low current
deposit would form a coarse and crystalline layer. Whereas if the
current density is high, the layer would be smooth and sleek. If the
current dentist is extremely high, then the layer would become
porous and spongy.