Enhancing aesthetics: Advances in electroplating for decorative applications
1 Department of Science, Govt. Polytechnic, Belur-573115, Karnataka, India.
2 Department of Science, Govt. Polytechnic, Turuvekere-572227, Karnataka, India.
Review Article
World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2019, 01(01), 089-098
Article DOI: 10.30574/wjarr.2019.1.1.0005.1
Publication history:
Received on 03 January 2019; revised on 20 February 2019; accepted on 25 February 2019
Abstract:
Electroplating is a widely adopted surface finishing technique used in decorative applications to enhance the aesthetic appeal, durability, and corrosion resistance of various materials, including metals and plastics. By depositing a thin layer of metal onto a substrate through an electrochemical process, electroplating enables the production of visually appealing, wear-resistant, and long-lasting decorative coatings. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the electroplating process, detailing the commonly used metals such as gold, silver, nickel, chromium, and copper, along with their specific applications in decorative finishes. Furthermore, the study examines critical surface preparation techniques, including cleaning, degreasing, etching, and activation, which are essential for achieving high-quality coatings. The influence of electroplating parameters, such as current density, bath composition, temperature, and deposition time, on the final finish is also explored. Additionally, advancements in electroplating technology, including eco-friendly and sustainable alternatives such as cyanide-free baths, trivalent chromium plating, and pulse electroplating techniques, are discussed. A comparative analysis is presented using tables and bar charts to evaluate the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, environmental impact, and performance of various electroplating methods. The study also highlights challenges related to waste management, regulatory compliance, and innovative solutions for reducing hazardous byproducts. By providing insights into modern electroplating advancements and sustainable practices, this paper aims to guide manufacturers and researchers toward more efficient and environmentally responsible decorative electroplating techniques.
Keywords:
Electroplating; Decorative Coatings; Corrosion Resistance; Surface Finishing; Metal Deposition; Pulse Electroplating; Eco-Friendly Electrolytes; Nanostructured Coatings
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Copyright © 2019 Author(s) retain the copyright of this article. This article is published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Liscense 4.0