Tin plating is used in making food cans. Image credit alsagerfoodbank.org.uk

Tin plating is used in making food cans. Image credit alsagerfoodbank.org.uk

ZIMSEC O Level Combined Science Notes: Summary of plating and its uses

  • The electroplating processes can be summarized as below
Plating processAnodeCathodeElectrolyte
copper platingcopperMetal object to be platedcopper sulphate solution
nickel platingnickelMetal object to be plated Nickel sulphate solution
chrome plating leadleadMetal object to be platedChromic acid solution
  • The various plating processes and their uses can be summarised as below:
Plating processIts uses
Copper plating
  • Decorative purposes

  • Silencers for cars since it expands well
    Nickel plating
    • Decorative purposes

    • To make electroplated Nickel silver
      Chrome plating
      • Decorative purposes

      • Protective metal parts of motor vehicles

      • Taps and door handles
      Galvanising
      • Protective coating for nuts, bolts and steel baths, roofing
      Tin-plating
      • Protective plating for food cans
      Painting
      • For large steel structures

      To access more topics go to the Combined Science Notes page.