Although plating is often associated with finishing metals, it is a process that can also be used successfully on a range of non-conductive materials, including plastic.
A brief introduction to plating plastics
The process of plating plastics dates back to the 1960s, but it proved to be difficult to achieve a robust bond between the metallic coating and the plastic. This problem was successfully overcome with the use of an etchant, which increased the adhesive properties of the plastic.
Sulphuric acid anodising is a process that can be used to deposit a protective and durable layer of oxide on aluminium, but a slightly different process is required to plate plastics. You can learn more about sulphuric anodising on the websites of specialists such as poeton.co.uk/surface-treatments/anodising/sulphuric-acid-anodising/.
Today, plated plastics have a variety of applications, including electronic device control knobs, plumbing fixtures and clothing buttons. By 2030, the value of the plating on plastics sector is predicted to reach $1.6bn.
What are the challenges of plating plastics?
The process of plating plastics isn’t always straightforward. Insufficient adhesion is one of the most common challenges, but warping, roughness and inadequate plating can also cause problems during the process and require careful practices to avoid.
The benefits of plating plastics
There are several benefits to plating plastics. Firstly, the plating process can significantly improve the appearance of plastics, as a coating of silver or gold can offer additional brightness and colour. Additionally, plating can also boost the plastic’s resistance to a variety of chemicals, enhancing its suitability for use in a number of manufacturing processes.
