Letter 18089

Removing nickel plate  

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I have a late 1800's brass/copper ships lantern that I am refurbishing. I have been able to remove most of the corrosion and tarnish but there appears to be a galvanized coating or nickel plating on it. Some areas flake right off but others will not. Is there a way to remove this plating without damaging the brass/copper?

Bryant Spencer
- Southport, North Carolina

Try Laybere solution, if you can get it! Alternatively, try a mixture of 3 parts conc H2SO4 and 2 parts water, but be sure you know how to mix them or you will get very burnt with extremely hot acid. Add 50g/l glycerol and strip the nickel at 4A/dm2 at 5-6V. Be very careful or you will also start to dissolve the copper.

Trevor Crichton R&D practical scientist - UK

I would strongly suggest that you do not attempt this yourself. Locate a metalfinisher who specializes in refinishing. Using strong acids for those not schooled in the proper handling and disposal of same is dangerous.

Gene Packman
- Syosset, NY

I also suggest you do not attempt this yourself. If you do strip the nickel what to do with the now hazardous waste! Should you wish to continue and have an amp meter tied to the power supply; watch for a rise in voltage and reduction in amps to indicate end of cycle.

Jon Quirt
- Fridley, MN

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