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plating, anodizing, & finishing Q&As since 1989




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Silver 'plating' removal from laboratory glass

 

I work in a laboratory and have a laboratory glass bottle that has silver plating on the inside of the glass. I need to remove the silver so the glass container can be used again. I am already aware of how to dispose of the removed silver, but I can't find a technique to remover the silver 'plating' from the glass. What procedure(s) can I use to remove the silver plating safely and efficiently?

Donna A [last name deleted for privacy by Editor]
- Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA

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First of two simultaneous responses --  

Nitric acid. 50% v/v is a good starting point. Don't even fill the container all the way, just tilt it (carefully!) to get the surfaces to contact the acid. It shouldn't take long.

Bill Vins
microwave & cable assemblies - Mesa (what a place-a), Arizona

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Second of two simultaneous responses --  

If it is silver then nitric acid will dissolve (OR sodium cyanide solution}. If aluminium use Caustic Soda [affil link] solution. If you need to scrub the inside put some sand in there with detergent or cleaning aid and swirl etc

Geoffrey Whitelaw
- Port Melbourne, Australia