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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
(Ted can offer longterm or instant help)
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
(Ted can offer longterm or instant help)
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2001

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