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Film on Copper anodes

Bright acid copper

I am having a problem with my phosphorized anodes getting a whitish looking film after approx. 1 1/2-2 hours plating, then I start losing current till drops to 0 and then I have to scrub the anodes off I have checked formulas, ok their, made 3 baths, all three do the same thing. Could I be running to much Sulfuric acid I am running 9 OZ to a gallon Running brightener and leveler. To me with trying new baths and getting the same results, it has to be, either the sulfuric or something to do with my additives.

Clint Driggars
- Celina, Texas
2002

Sounds like polarized anodes! You should have at least 2 to 1 anode cathode ratio. Are the bags clean? What about chloride content? It should be about 50 ppm. What kind of basket are you using, it should be titanium.

Russell Richter
- Danbury, Connecticut, USA
2002

Why don't you check with your supplier. Some possible areas to look at are anode/cathode current densities, copper metal, chloride ion, concentration.

Gene Packman
process supplier - Great Neck, New York
2002

adv.: Supplier of Copper Anodes, Nickel Anodes, Bismuth Metal, & Other Metal Products for Industry & The Arts