Abstract: In a process for the electroless plating of nickel onto a substrate made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy, an aqueous acidic solution containing as an essential component a palladium salt is used as an activator of the substrate prior to the nickel plating of the substrate. The activating solution contains a palladium salt, an alkali metal fluoride or hydrofluoric acid, a carboxylic acid complexing agent, an alkali metal salt of gluconic acid, an iron salt, a nickel salt, and deionized water.

Abstract: A progressive action, full extension drawer guide which allows drawers to open completely, has first and second rails with recessed nesting portions and ball bearings therebetween for gliding of the second rail with respect to the first rail, and a third rail with roller guide means which fits within the recessed portion of the second rail. A friction roller is mounted for rotation on the second or middle rail and contacts tracks on the first and third rails to move the second rail progressively one-half the distance of movement between the first and third rails. Novel stops are provided to stop the movement of the first rail with respect to the second rail and to stop the movement of the second rail with respect to the third rail when the drawer is fully extended. The drawer guide is very compact so that it can be used on relatively shallow drawers.