what is electroplating

Electroplating, also known as electrochemical deposition or electrodeposition, is a process for producing a metal coating on a solid substrate through the reduction of cations of that metal by means of a direct electric current. The process involves depositing material using an electric current, which results in a thin layer of metal being deposited onto the surface of a workpiece called the substrate. Electroplating is primarily used to change the physical properties of an object. This process can be used to give objects increased wear resistance, corrosion protection, or aesthetic appeal, as well as increased thickness. Electroplating is widely used in industry and decorative arts to improve the surface qualities of objects, such as resistance to abrasion and corrosion, lubricity, reflectivity, electrical conductivity, or appearance. The process can also be used to build up thickness on undersized or worn-out parts, or to manufacture metal plates with complex shapes, a process called electroforming. There are specific types of electroplating, such as copper plating, silver plating, and chromium plating/Electrochemistry/Electrolytic_Cells/Electroplating).