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Plating non-metallic substances

Is there a means of electro plating aluminum on wood?

Stephen Storer
Big Opera - South Pasadena, California, USA
2001

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2001

Yes, it's possible. But that by no means should be read as meaning that it is a practical way to metallize whatever it is that you are trying to metallize.

Instead of posing your question as a vague abstraction, why not provide some real detail and get some more usable answers?

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

Thanks for the response, Ted. I'm not sure I want to "publish" the specifics of what I have in mind in this "public" forum as there are some proprietary issues involved. I just knew that there were instances of plating chrome and bronze (baby shoes) on non-metallic substances; but I didn't know if there were similar processes for plating aluminum (and then colour anodizing that surface, as well).

Stephen Storer
- South Pasadena, California
2001

Not being in your position, I can't suggest what you should reveal and what you shouldn't, Steve. But my personal experience is that when a vague hypothetical question is posted, the chances are greater that the inquirer will misinterpret the answers than that he will correctly interpret them :-)

You might talk to Alumiplate to get a better appreciation for what is involved in the plating of aluminum and the subsequent anodizing of that plated aluminum.

Good luck.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2001