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What plastic is best for copper or nickel plating?

What are the best plastics to use when copper or Ni plating will be done?
PC,
ABS,
smooth surface,
rough surface,
high gloss, etc.

Jeff Harrell
Plastics mold builder / part supplier - Macomb, Michigan
November 10, 2010

Hi, Jeff. Nearly anything can be plated, but the real issue in most cases is to get plating with excellent adhesion to the substrate. Plating-grade ABS is usually best because it can be selectively etched to provide exceptional "tooth" for adhesion. This microscopic roughness, rather than a macro smoothness or roughness is what you seek. Most automobile grills are copper-nickel-chrome plated ABS. Good luck.

Regards,

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
November 10, 2010

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