The authoritative public forum
  for Metal Finishing since 1989
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Protective Finish for Copper

1998

I am using some soft copper for a home project ( 2 pieces 1/8" thick by 14" x 20" -- another half that size. Each piece has numerous holes and larger cut-outs) and want to polish it and then put on some sort of a protective finish which will keep the copper from oxidizing and showing fingerprints. I would like to be able to apply this finish at home without the need for exotic processes. This copper will be used "indoors" and is not subject to any environment other than in the house. I would appreciate any help you can give me on this!

Tx

Carl Smith

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There are lacquers which are formulated for the specific purpose of keeping brass and copper shiny and free from tarnish. Look in a local phone book under "Plating Equipment & Supplies", or search our Chemicals Directory for the word lacquer, or contact a lacquer specialist like G.J. Nikolas [a finishing.com supporting advertiser]

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
1998

I bought some 16 oz copper roofing material to make a copper countertop. Does anyone know how to protect the metal from the dark grey discoloring caused by contact with skin or body oil?

Austin Robert Mitchell
- Austin, Texas, United States
2003