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Electrolytic recovery of nickel [Pakistan]

I'm recovering nickel metal from chloride solution using electrolytic process. can anyone tell me what should be the proper voltage and and what are the additional chemicals, which should be added to improve deposition...

Fahad Mateen
Hobbyist - Pakistan
July 28, 2010

July 30, 2010

Electrolytic recovery of nickel is more difficult than most other metals. Usually, chloride is not the preferred electrolyte because chlorine gas will be generated at the anode.

It usually requires heat to > 50 degrees C, pH control to maintain the pH to > 2.5, and a buffer like boric acid or an organic acid to prevent precipitation of nickel hydroxide on the cathode.

Also, since electroplated nickel tends to form trees that can short circuit the cell, it is best to also install fuses or circuit breakers on the electrodes to reduce the risk of fires.

All of this being said, you may wish to investigate other nickel recovery methods before deciding on electrolytic recovery.

Lyle Kirman
consultant - Cleveland Heights, Ohio

Fahad Mateen
student - Pakistan
August 14, 2010

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