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  for Metal Finishing since 1989
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Zinc electroplating for the classroom

We are doing an experiment in electroplating using copper substrate and zinc. I would just like to know what additives I can use to prevent the oxidation of the deposited zinc metal. is there anything that we can just prepare for the class so we won't need to buy commercially available products. thanks! :)

Joe Quencher
- Philippines
2007

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If it's an experiment to demonstrate chemical principles like Faraday's Law, I don't think you need to worry about the long term durability of the plated parts, Joe, and their freedom from white rust oxidation. If you are trying to make useful parts (maybe you are in an art school rather than a science class), I think you should buy a commercial product. Chromate coatings (hexavalent chrome) are being rapidly eliminated worldwide because of the perceived dangers, and the last thing you want to do is apply a chromate home-brew in the classroom. The replacements for hexavalent chromate are largely pretty high technology that you need to buy rather than mix. Good luck.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2007