Electroplating is a very important technology because it allows the coating of inexpensive and very accessible materials with layers of different metals.
It is not only applied to obtain better properties, its use extends to multiple applications, in which it would otherwise be very costly to achieve these objectives, such as protection against corrosion, improvement of mechanical properties and aesthetic finishes (decoration).
Some of the most common applications of nickel plating are as follows:
- Corrosion protection; since the nickel layers are not porous, as in the case of tool coatings.
- Improved mechanical properties; used in combination with other metals, such as chromium. A very common application in the automotive industry is automotive fenders.
- Decorative coatings; purely aesthetic finishes, for example, on metal bathroom accessories and many other items on the market.
Source: FELIPE DÍAZ DEL CASTILLO R.