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Silver oxidation prevention

We plate silver onto composite materials for increased electrial performance on space based hardware. We now have a ground based application. What can I use to prevent the silver from oxidizing and losing electrical conductivity? Can we put a flash of Ni, Cu or Au? Would the silver migrate over time? Is there an organic coating that lasts and does not reduce the conductivity?

Karen Spinar
Aerospace - San Diego, California, USA
2004

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Oxidation of silver is not usually a problem on electrical components. The oxide layer which forms is thin and also electrically conductive, so you will find that silver is used in many, many applications every day. If, for some reason you need a surface which is more oxidation resistant, you can use gold, palladium or rhodium plating.

Jeffrey Holmes, CEF
Spartanburg, South Carolina
2004

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First of two simultaneous responses --

Chromate products for aluminum will also protect silver. At least dry on a little yellow colored chromate rinse water.

Robert H Probert
Robert H Probert Technical Services

Garner, North Carolina

2004

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Second of two simultaneous responses --

Karen,

Silver will never oxidation silver. That you can see is only sulfuric film you can use a passivation in sodium cromic acid ask a supplier.

Regards

Anders Sundman
4th Generation Surface Engineering
Consultant - Arvika,
Sweden
2004