Chrome Plating

The Plating Process
Current plating-on-plastics processes still employ the basic technology developed at that time, although inevitably many refinements and improvements have been. The basic steps are as follows :

• Etch in chromic acid based solution to promote adhesion
• Neutralise excess chromic acid
• Activate the plastics surface with a solution containing tin and palladium salts. This deposits nuclei of palladium metal on the plastics that catalyse nickel or copper growth from the subsequent electroless processes.
• Coat the surface with either nickel or copper (nickel is now generally the preferred commercial process) from an electroless plating solution.

Once the plastics component has been coated with this electrically conductive and adherent surface layer it can subsequently be electroplated using conventional technology.
Automotive decals and trim, tapware, furniture trim, bathroom accessories, hardware and architectural accessories, some electrical fittings and many other items.