Platinum Plating Process Technology

Pure platinum is a tin white metal, it is malleable ductile and harder than silver. It does not tarnish in air, dissolve in acid, and it has a melting point of 3224 degrees F. In nature it is generally found as part of the Platinum Group Metals (PGM’s); Platinum, Palladium, Rhodium, Ruthenium, Iridium, and Osmium.

When platinum was first discovered in Columbia back in the early 1700’s the natives called it “platina,” meaning silver of little value. However, over the years as refining processes were developed, there were many uses found for this valuable metal. Today worldwide demand exceeds 5.5 million ounces. Approximately 20% of the goods manufactured in the world contain platinum or are produced using platinum.

Platinum Electroplating

Platinum electroplating is used to coat electrodes that are used in water purification, refining of oil, and the manufacturing of fertilizers, acids, and explosives. The automotive industry uses platinum-plated catalytic converters to treat automobile exhaust emissions. In the medical industry, platinum plating solution is used on instruments such as catheters and connectors for surgical equipment. The electrical and electronics industries use platinum plating for low-voltage and low-energy contacts. In electroplating, platinum is often used to coat titanium, niobium, or stainless steel anodes. It is also used in the jewelry industry. Platinum’s luster is much purer than silver or gold, enhancing the brilliance of gemstones and diamonds. Platinum plating does not tarnish or oxidize and it is hypoallergenic – very few people ever experience an allergic reaction.

Platinum Coating

Platinum electroplate coatings typically range from 0.5 to 5 microns depending on the application. It is applied using a rack fixture that is submerged in a chloroplatinic acid or a sulfate-based platinum solution. The finished product will range in color from tin white to a matte gray finish depending on the base metal finish, activation process, and the thickness of the platinum coating.