Alkaline copper electrolyte for acid-sensitive metals
Copper electrolyte alkaline (basic) can be used in bath electroplating as well as in pin electroplating/tampon electroplating. Our alkaline copper electrolyte does not contain cyanides.
As it enables electroplating of acid-sensitive metals, it is suitable for many applications. Important properties of alkaline copper electrolyte are excellent levelling and good scattering. In addition, alkaline or basic copper impresses with an intensive and visually appealing colour. This colour can be further enhanced by an additional coating with our bright copper electrolyte.
Areas of application for copper electrolyte alkaline
Copper alkaline prepares acid-sensitive materials for copper plating with acidic copper electrolyte. These include, for example, various ferrous materials or zinc.
A particular advantage is that it does not deposit electrolessly on iron, which would form a loose coating before electrodeposition begins. This increases the adhesion on ferrous materials.
Basic copper electrolyte serves as an intermediate layer for acid-sensitive metals before the final plating with acidic electrolytic copper or other coatings.
Basic copper electrolyte is suitable for the following metals:
-lead, bronze, iron, copper, brass, zinc, tin, steel, zinc die-cast and many others.
-Base copper is not suitable for aluminium, chrome and titanium. Aluminium requires pre-treatment with aluminium activator.
-Please test all other metals not mentioned above for their suitability for electroplating before copper plating.
Application instructions for copper electrolyte alkaline
Alkaline copper electrolyte is suitable for all electroplating processes from bath electroplating to pin electroplating / pad electroplating. It already works at room temperature; however, it can be heated if necessary. The ideal temperature range is between 25 - 50°C.
Clean the workpiece thoroughly before treatment to remove grease and oil. Please remove dirt and rust with appropriate tools. Only handle the object with disposable gloves to avoid transferring skin grease to the surface.
Parameters for the use of copper electrolyte alkaline
Copper anodes are optimal, nickel or tin anodes are also suitable.
Anode on positive pole - workpiece on negative pole
Bath electroplating
approx. 1-4.5V
Pin electroplating
approx. 2-4V
Current density
1-8,5A/dm²
Working temperature
20-60°C
pH-value
8-9
Always use gloves and safety goggles and do not inhale the vapours / aerosols. Use only in well ventilated areas!
Identification of the mixture:
Copper electrolyte alkaline
(contains copper sulphate, potassium hydroxide)
GHS05 GHS09 GHS07
Signal word: Danger
H-phrases:
H314: Causes severe skin burns and eye damage.
H411: Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects.
P-phrases:
P102: Keep out of the reach of children.
P280: Wear protective gloves / clothing / eye protection.
P301 + P330 + P331: IN case of ingestion: Rinse out mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting.
P303 + P361 + P353: IF ON SKIN (or hair): Remove all contaminated clothing immediately. Wash skin with water/shower.
P305 + P351 + P338: IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if possible. Continue rinsing.
P501: Dispose of contents/container to special waste.
