Abstract: A method of immersing an electrode in an electroplating solution while under vacuum, to substantially eliminate air and/or other gas from microscopic holes, cavities or indentations in the electrode. A method of electroplating an electrode in an electroplating solution including the application of a vacuum to the electrode while it is immersed in the electroplating solution to thereby substantially eliminate air and/or other gas from microscopic holes, cavities or indentations in the electrode. The electroplating liquid may be applied to only one side of the electrode (“the wet side”) in which case, sufficient time is allowed to pass for the immersion liquid to fill the microscopic through-holes, cavities or indentations in the electrode. An enhancement of this mode is to force liquid through the microscopic holes from the wet side. A highly penetrating solvent may be used as an immersion liquid.

Abstract: A method of immersing an electrode in an electroplating solution while under vacuum, to substantially eliminate air and/or other gas from microscopic holes, cavities or indentations in the electrode. A method of electroplating an electrode in an electroplating solution including the application of a vacuum to the electrode while it is immersed in the electroplating solution to thereby substantially eliminate air and/or other gas from microscopic holes, cavities or indentations in the electrode. The electroplating liquid may be applied to only one side of the electrode (“the wet side”) in which case, sufficient time is allowed to pass for the immersion liquid to fill the microscopic through-holes, cavities or indentations in the electrode. An enhancement of this mode is to force liquid through the microscopic holes from the wet side. A highly penetrating solvent may be used as an immersion liquid.

Abstract: A window seal apparatus capable of transmitting infrared radiation for use under high temperature ultra-high vacuum conditions. The apparatus includes a window clamped between an annular rim of a clamp flange and an annular rim of a sealing flange. The rim of the sealing flange includes an annular sealing knob machined therein having an annular indentation in its upper surface. An annular lead gasket is located between the sealing knob and one side of the window. An annular lead gasket having roughened surfaces is positioned adjacent to the other side of the window and a TEFLON gasket is positioned adjacent to the annular rim of the clamp flange. A constant force means is provided for pushing the clamp flange toward the window and the sealing flange thereby producing a seal therebetween. The window is preferably formed from alkali halide material.