Easy Nickel Plating with Redox-Nickel by Dr. Galva!
Redox-Nickel is an electroless nickel electrolyte for chemical nickel plating of objects – an exclusive offer from Dr. Galva, the specialist in chemicals for industrial applications.
Operating Principle
The electroless nickel process is a chemical reduction method for metal deposition that, unlike electrolytic galvanization, does not require a direct current supply. For this reason, this electroless plating method is also called electroless nickel or autocatalytic nickel plating. A protective nickel layer (nickel-phosphorus alloy) is deposited from a nickel salt-containing aqueous solution onto the object being plated, without the need for a soluble anode. This allows metal objects to be easily and quickly nickel-plated. A significant advantage is that the deposition is highly accurate to the contours, which is particularly beneficial for internal threads.
Procedure and Product Benefits
The object to be nickel-plated is thoroughly cleaned and then immersed in the heated nickel bath for a few minutes. The nickel salt solution contained in the bath deposits an absolutely uniform nickel layer on the object, which is largely resistant to acids, alkalis, and corrosion (note that nickel provides sufficient corrosion protection only at a thickness of 25µm or more). The high-quality finish (only on glossy surfaces) sets this electroless nickel process apart from other electroless nickel baths. Additionally, a chemically deposited nickel coating is up to three times harder than electroplated nickel layers, significantly increasing the wear resistance of metallic objects. A special heat treatment can further achieve hardness levels of 1,000 HV and above.
Applications
This method is suitable for objects and surfaces made of iron, steel, and palladium. For copper, bronze, and brass surfaces, a copper activator is required as a pretreatment. This activator, available as part of a set with the electrolyte solution or separately, deposits a catalytically active layer on copper-based materials, enabling the reaction with Redox-Nickel. Unsuitable materials include zinc, zinc die-cast, gold, silver, platinum, and other precious metals.
Product Features
- Flawless coating capability
- Good solderability and weldability
- High and durable gloss
- Accurate contouring and uniform layer distribution
- Good corrosion resistance (from approx. 30µm)
- Reusable after use
- Stabilizer to prevent spontaneous decomposition (e.g., when introducing palladium)
- Approx. 4µm/h at 70°C
- Operating temperature (requires heating): 50-90°C
- High abrasion resistance
- Excellent sliding properties
- Outstanding coverage in drill holes & interior areas
- Lead-free and cadmium-free
- Non-magnetic
Identification of the mixture:
Redox-Nickel
(contains nickel dichloride, nickel sulfate, nickel bis(sulfamidate), nickel di(acetate), diammonium nickel bis(sulfate))
Signal word: Warning
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.
Copper activator
(contains sulphuric acid)
Signal word: Danger
H290 May be corrosive to metals.
H314 Causes severe skin burns and eye Damage.
P101 If medical advice is needed, have product container or label at hand.
P102 Keep out of reach of children.
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 Do not discard content with household waste and forward for disposal according to regional/national guidelines.
