Free-Nickel Smoky – Black Nickel Electrolyte for Versatile Decorative Coatings
Free-Nickel Smoky, also known as black nickel electrolyte, is perfect for decorative coatings on various components. The coating creates a fascinating interplay of colors, ranging from anthracite to dark grey and deep black, depending on light and viewing angle. Free-Nickel Smoky by Dr. Galva stands out for its consistent color fidelity and long-lasting durability. It was developed for free sale and can be sold to private individuals without a declaration of final use.
What is Black Nickel?
The black nickel electrolyte from Dr. Galva is designed for the decorative refinement of metals. With proper application, it forms an even anthracite-colored layer, giving the component an elegant appearance, comparable to black chrome. Whether for fittings, visible screws, or other metal components, black nickel offers numerous design possibilities. Your creativity knows no bounds.
Suitable Metals for Black Nickel:
Black nickel is suitable for many metals, excluding chrome, aluminum, and titanium. Suitable metals include:
- Iron
- Steel
- Copper
- Nickel
- Silver
- Gold
- Lead
For increased durability, especially in outdoor applications, it is recommended to apply a base layer of regular nickel, particularly on copper and its alloys. This increases corrosion resistance and ensures a more uniform finish. Use the powerful Free-Nickel electrolyte from Dr. Galva for this base layer. For stainless steel, pre-treatment with nickel strike is recommended to optimize adhesion.
Application of Free-Nickel Smoky Black Nickel Electrolyte:
To achieve the best results, thoroughly clean and degrease the component before application. A clean, grease-free surface is essential for an even coating. Wear protective gloves during cleaning to avoid transferring skin oils to the component.
The black nickel electrolyte can be used for both bath plating and pen plating. Monitor the gas formation during the galvanic process: If too many bubbles rise from the workpiece, reduce the voltage. If no deposition occurs, the voltage is too low and needs to be carefully increased. Black nickel deposits more slowly than regular nickel.
Protective clothing and good ventilation are required throughout the process.
Technical Parameters (values may vary, please test):
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Bath plating: 2-8V (approx. 3-5V recommended)
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Pen plating: 6-10V (approx. 6-8V recommended)
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Current density: 1-5 A/dm²
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Working temperature: 15-50°C
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pH value: 4-5 (adjustable with citric or sulfuric acid)
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Deposition rate: approx. 0.5 µm/min at 2.5A/dm² and 20°C
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Blackness L* (CIE Lab measurement): 42-47
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Anodes: Nickel, platinum-plated titanium (alternatively graphite, stainless steel for pen plating)
Identification of the mixture:
Free-Nickel Smoky
(contains nickel sulfate, nickel dichloride, nickel bis(sulfamidate), nickel sulfamate, nickel di(acetate), diammonium nickel bis(sulfate))
Signal word: Danger
H317 May cause an allergic skin reaction.
H412 Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects.
P102 Keep out of reach of Children.
P103 Read carefully and follow all instructions.
P261 Avoid breathing dust/vapours/spray.
P280 Wear protective gloves and eye/face protection.
P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water.
P333+P313 If skin irritation or rash occurs: Get medical advice/attention.
P501 Dispose of contents/container according to regional/national regulations. Do not discard with household waste.
