Acidic copper electrolyte for bright layers
The Dr.Galva bright copper electrolyte convinces with a high deposition rate and a bright copper layer. Subsequent polishing of the polishable copper layer is not necessary. Further characteristics of electroplated copper from our range are the good levelling properties as well as excellent throwing power. This also applies to the ductility of the product, which makes the copper electrolyte primarily suitable for thin coatings and multi-layer processes.
The bright copper electrolyte was developed for all electroplating processes from bath electroplating to pin electroplating / pad electroplating. In doing so, the copper acid always delivers high-quality results, regardless of the electroplating process used.
Applications of electroplated copper
Electroplating copper is often the basis of corrosion protection systems. Here, the copper layer deposited from the copper electrolyte combined with a nickel or chrome coating forms the base layer of a durable multi-layer protection. In combination with brass, copper serves as a functional intermediate layer.
-galvanic copper increases the corrosion resistance of surfaces.
-galvanic copper plating provides improved thermal and electrical conductivity.
-copper-plated surfaces serve aesthetic purposes and are used as design elements in interior architecture, but also in exterior applications.
-coating in the context of silver and gold plating of objects.
The very good levelling properties of copper electrolyte reduce the polishing costs of metals. Furthermore, it has a very good polishability.
Gold and silver platings benefit from the layer build-up. In this case, bright copper forms the bottom layer on which a nickel layer is applied before the final gold or silver plating. The nickel layer serves as a diffusion barrier, otherwise the copper would diffuse into the gold and turn reddish.
Copper electrolyte for which materials
Alkaline copper electrolyte and acidic copper are suitable for a variety of different materials. However, differentiate carefully between acid-sensitive and acid-resistant materials. Acid-resistant materials such as nickel, copper, brass or bronze may be electroplated with copper acid in the first step. Acid-sensitive materials such as zinc or iron require pre-treatment with alkaline copper electrolyte. Only then is electroplating with bright copper electrolyte in the form of copper acid possible.
Surfaces made of aluminium, chrome, zinc, tin or titanium are unsuitable for direct acid copper plating.
How to achieve optimal results
You use the high-quality bright copper for bath electroplating and pin electroplating / tampon electroplating. It delivers optimum results with each process, provided you take the following parameters into account:
Parameters (these may vary, please test):
- tank plating: 0.3-2V (approx. 0.5-0.8V recommended at 10cm distance)
- brush plating: 1.2-4.5V (approx. 3V recommended)
- current density: 0.6-4.2A/dm² (up to 7A/dm² with bath movement)
- working temperature: 15-60°C
- deposition rate: approx. 1.5µm/min at 3A/dm² and 20°C
- ph-value: 1
Use graphite or copper anodes as anodes.
Correct application for high quality results
Before electroplating, whether bath electroplating or pin electroplating, clean the workpiece with the utmost care, e.g. by degreasing it thoroughly with alcohol. Use disposable gloves to avoid transferring skin grease to the surfaces. Impurities caused by rust must be completely removed. In case of pin plating, always keep the pad in motion.
Either heat the bright copper to the recommended temperatures or use electrolytic copper at room temperature.
Only carry out copper plating in well-ventilated rooms and do not breathe in the vapours and aerosols produced.
Labelling of the mixture:
Glossy copper plating solution
(contains copper sulphate pentahydrate, sulphuric acid)
Signal word: Danger
H290 May be corrosive to metals.
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.
P234 Keep only in original packaging.
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.
