49041

Test adherence for electroplating on ABS  

June 16, 2008

Hello, I'm working in my thesis topic and it's about a electroplating on ABS, we have some troubles because we don't know which is the most effiecient test of adherence for electropating Ni, Cu and Cr on this plastic, actually we need a test that not be destructive with the pieces. Could you help us to find a correct test? The electroplating is only for decorative ends.

Thank you

Carolina Alvarado
student - Bogotá

You do it on scrap parts. There are tape tests, but not for your needs as I read it.

James Watts
- Navarre, Florida

Thermal cycling or thermal shock is a good way to test for adhesion. It is only a pass/fail test, though, and does not isolate adhesion. If you fail, you'll get some sort of delamination or cracking.

(Metal cracking can actually indicate good adhesion.)

Bunhom Ngem
Automotive - Troy, MI, USA