Abstract: A process for plating metal on plastic substrates, particularly ABS substrates, without the use of chrome containing etchants is disclosed. The process involves (i) etching the plastic substrate in an acidic solution of nitrate ions, and preferably silver ions, (ii) conditioning the substrate in an aqueous solution containing an amine or ammonia, (iii) activating the substrate, preferably with a palladium activator, and (iv) plating the substrate with an electroless plating solution. The process allows for complete adherent electroless plating of plastic substrates, particularly ABS substrates, without the use of chromic etchants.

Abstract: A process for plating metal on plastic substrates, particularly ABS substrates, without the use of chrome containing etchants is disclosed. The process involves (i) etching the plastic substrate in an acidic solution of nitrate ions, and preferably silver ions, (ii) conditioning the substrate in an aqueous solution containing an amine or ammonia, (iii) activating the substrate, preferably with a palladium activator, and (iv) plating the substrate with an electroless plating solution. The process allows for complete adherent electroless plating of plastic substrates, particularly ABS substrates, without the use of chromic etchants.

Abstract: A process for mechanical plating zinc alloys onto metal substrates is disclosed. The process is particularly suited to plating zinc-aluminium or zinc-manganese alloys onto aluminium or magnesium substrates. The zinc alloy particles are immersion coated with tin prior to plating upon the metal substrate. Fluoride ions are preferably added to the plating media to increase plating efficiency, particularly when zinc aluminium alloys are being plated.