Abstract: The present invention relates to a solution for use in connection with the deposition of tin or tin alloys on platable portions of substrates. This solution comprises water; tin ions in an amount sufficient to provide a tin deposit on platable portions of substrates; a complexing agent of an acid or salt thereof that is stable at a pH of above 5.5 and below 10 present in an amount sufficient to render the metal ion soluble in the solution; and a surfactant of an alkoxylated polyalcohol present in an amount sufficient to complex the metal and render it soluble in the solution to facilitate deposition of tin upon the platable portions of the substrates.

Abstract: Electroless or autocatalytic gold plating solutions having increased stability through the use of a non-aqueous solvent, preferably ethylene glycol, in an amount of between 50 and 100% of the base solution. Also, the excess free cyanide content of this solution can be controlled at optimum levels by periodic additions of a strong inorganic oxidant such as sodium hypochlorite without adversely affecting the other solution components.

Abstract: Alkaline cyanide-free copper strike baths are provided for the purposes of electrodepositing a copper-zinc alloy strike coating unto a metal based substrate so as to prevent immersion coating by the copper on the metal substrate and thereby provide a basis for the subsequent addition to the substrate of composite electrodeposits which are blister free and highly adherent. Electrochemical coating processes for employing such strike baths and the resulting products are disclosed.