Abstract: An object, in particular an item of sanitaryware, has a base body, a first layer that is optionally present on the base body and a ruthenium-containing layer above this first layer. This ruthenium-containing layer has been applied using a PVD process and preferably consists of a ruthenium-containing alloy. This alloy is in particular a nickel-Chromium-ruthenium alloy. The invention also comprises a corresponding production process and a PVD target made from a nickel-chromium-ruthenium alloy.

Abstract: The invention relates to a sanitary hose produced from flexible plastic, especially a shower hose, comprising an inner surface 17 and an outer surface 14 and having an antimicrobial finish. For the antimicrobial finish, at least one antimicrobial plastic is embedded in the material at least of the inner surface 17.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for coating objects, particularly sanitary ware such as plumbing fixtures, shower fittings and the like, during which at least one layer made of copper, nickel or of a copper-nickel alloy is firstly applied to the object. The object itself and/or at least the uppermost applied layer are/is then subjected to a mechanical surface treatment, and at least one nickel-tungsten layer and/or at least one palladium-nickel layer are/is applied to the object or the surface-treated layer. The surface treatment preferably ensues by brushing and/or blasting. This enables objects to be provided with a specific appearance, particularly a high-grade steel-like appearance.