Abstract: A support for supporting a component to be plated in a chromic acid-free plating process, the support having a contact surface comprising iodine-treated and/or bromine-treated plastic.

Abstract: Pulse reverse electrolysis of acid copper solutions is used for applying copper deposits of a controlled hardness for applications such as producing printing cylinders. The benefits include improved production capacity. Hardness of the deposit is controlled by varying at least one factor selected from the group consisting of (i) cathodic pulse time, (ii) anodic pulse time, (iii) cathodic pulse current density, and (iv) anodic pulse current density. Preferably the ratio of cathodic pulse time to anodic pulse time is varied.

Abstract: Pulse reverse electrolysis of acid copper solutions is used for applying copper to printing cylinders, especially gravure printing cylinders. The plating composition generally comprising copper ions, counter ions, chloride ions, a polyalkylene glycol, and a bath-soluble divalent sulfur compound. The benefits include an improved thickness distribution of the copper electrodeposited on the plated article, reduced metal waste, reduced plating times and increased production capacity.