Alkaline copper electrolyte for acid-sensitive metals
Copper electrolyte alkaline (basic) can be used in bath electroplating as well as in pin electroplating/tampon electroplating. Our alkaline copper electrolyte does not contain cyanides.
As it enables electroplating of acid-sensitive metals, it is suitable for many applications. Important properties of alkaline copper electrolyte are excellent levelling and good scattering. In addition, alkaline or basic copper impresses with an intensive and visually appealing colour. This colour can be further enhanced by an additional coating with our bright copper electrolyte.
Areas of application for copper electrolyte alkaline
Copper alkaline prepares acid-sensitive materials for copper plating with acidic copper electrolyte. These include, for example, various ferrous materials or zinc.
A particular advantage is that it does not deposit electrolessly on iron, which would form a loose coating before electrodeposition begins. This increases the adhesion on ferrous materials.
Basic copper electrolyte serves as an intermediate layer for acid-sensitive metals before the final plating with acidic electrolytic copper or other coatings.
Basic copper electrolyte is suitable for the following metals:
- lead, bronze, iron, copper, brass, zinc, tin, steel, zinc die-cast and many others
- base copper is not suitable for aluminium, chrome and titanium. Aluminium requires pre-treatment with aluminium activator
- please test all other metals not mentioned above for their suitability for electroplating before copper plating
Application instructions for copper electrolyte alkaline
Alkaline copper electrolyte is suitable for all electroplating processes from bath electroplating to pin electroplating / pad electroplating. It already works at room temperature; however, it can be heated if necessary. The ideal temperature range is between 25 - 50°C.
Clean the workpiece thoroughly before treatment to remove grease and oil. Please remove dirt and rust with appropriate tools. Only handle the object with disposable gloves to avoid transferring skin grease to the surface.
Parameters for the use of copper electrolyte alkaline
Copper anodes are optimal, nickel or tin anodes are also suitable.
Anode to positive pole - workpiece to negative pole.
Parameters (these may vary, please test):
- tank plating: 1-2.5V (approx. 1.5V recommended at 10cm distance)
- brush plating: 2.5-6V (approx. 4-5V recommended)
- current density: 0.2-1.5A/dm² (up to 3A/dm² with bath movement)
- working temperature: 20-60°C
- deposition rate: approx. 0.4µm/min at 1A/dm² and 20°C
- ph value: 8-9
Always use gloves and safety goggles and do not inhale the vapours / aerosols. Use only in well ventilated areas!
Identification of the mixture:
Copper plating solution alkaline
(contains 1-Hydroxyethylidenediphosphonic acid, potassium hydroxide, copper sulphate)
Signal word: Danger
H290 May be corrosive to metals.
H302 Harmful if swallowed.
H314 Causes severe skin burns and eye damage.
H410 Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects.
P102 Keep out of reach of children.
P103 Read carefully and follow all instructions.
P260 Do not breathe dust/vapours/spray.
P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.
P301+P330+P331 IF SWALLOWED: Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting.
P303+P361+P353 IF ON SKIN (or hair): Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water or shower.
P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
P310 Immediately call a POISON CENTER/doctor.
P501 Dispose of contents/container according to regional/national regulations. Do not discard with household waste.
