Electroplating with mixed metal electrodes?

In summary, the person is trying to nickel plate an item but is having trouble finding pure nickel. They picked up some guitar strings labeled as pure nickel, but upon inspection, discovered that only the wound strings had nickel and the rest was stainless steel. They are wondering if they can still use these strings for nickel plating or if the steel will cause problems. They are also considering checking the electromotive series to make sure only nickel is oxidized.
  • #1
Latsabb
52
0
Hello.

I need to nickel plate an item, but there are no sources of pure nickel in my immediate area other than guitar strings. I picked up a set, which was labeled as pure nickel, but it was obvious upon inspection that only the wound strings had nickel, and that was only the woven outer layer. So this means that there is a stainless steel cable in the middle, with nickel cable wrapped around it.

So, my question is this: Can I use these strings to electroplate with, and still get a pure nickel plating? Or will the steel being in the electrolyte solution cause problems? My gut says that since the solution is a nickel based salt, it should only plate with nickel, but I would like to just double check.

Thank you in advance.
 
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  • #2
I think that you may need to check the electromotive series as in this cas you will need to use a source of potential difference only suitable for nickel to be oxidized
 

FAQ: Electroplating with mixed metal electrodes?

What is electroplating with mixed metal electrodes?

Electroplating with mixed metal electrodes is a process in which a thin layer of one metal is deposited onto the surface of another metal using an electrical current. This is achieved by immersing both metals in a solution containing ions of the plating metal, and passing an electrical current through the solution.

What are the benefits of using mixed metal electrodes in electroplating?

Using mixed metal electrodes in electroplating allows for the creation of alloys with specific properties, such as increased durability or resistance to corrosion. It also allows for the plating of metals that are difficult to plate using traditional methods.

What factors should be considered when choosing the right mixed metal electrodes for electroplating?

The choice of mixed metal electrodes for electroplating depends on several factors, including the desired properties of the final plated product, the compatibility of the metals being plated and used as electrodes, and the cost and availability of the electrodes.

How does the electroplating process work with mixed metal electrodes?

The electroplating process with mixed metal electrodes involves immersing both the metal to be plated and the mixed metal electrodes in an electrolyte solution. The electrodes are connected to a power source, and when an electrical current is passed through the solution, metal ions from the electrodes are deposited onto the surface of the metal being plated.

What are some common applications of electroplating with mixed metal electrodes?

Electroplating with mixed metal electrodes is commonly used in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and electronics. It can be used to improve the appearance, durability, and functionality of various metal components, such as jewelry, car parts, and electronic devices.

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