Gold Electrolyte 4 g/L – Gold Plating Solution Without Free Cyanides
€40.00
Available, delivery time: 1-2 days
Product information "Gold Electrolyte 4 g/L – Gold Plating Solution Without Free Cyanides"
Gold Electrolyte 4 g/L – Gold Plating Solution for Electroplating and Compatible Brush Plating Systems
Product Description
This gold electrolyte contains 4 g/L of gold and is designed for the electroplating of suitable workpieces. It enables the deposition of a high-quality gold coating and, subject to compatibility with the relevant equipment, may be suitable for both conventional tank plating and appropriate brush plating or pen plating applications.
The electrolyte is intended for users who wish to apply a gold coating to suitable metal surfaces. The achievable coating quality and deposition rate depend on the operating conditions, workpiece preparation and plating method used.
Important: This product contains potassium cyanide. Before use, read the current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) carefully and follow all applicable safety and handling requirements.
Benefits and Features
Gold electrolyte containing 4 g/L gold
Designed for suitable electroplating applications
May be used with compatible brush plating systems, subject to confirmation of suitability
Deposited coating specified as 99.9% gold
Defined operating parameters for controlled application
Technical data covering deposition rate, coating thickness and bath maintenance
Gold replenishment possible using a suitable gold replenisher
Intended for professional and knowledgeable users with appropriate technical equipment
Technical Data
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product type | Gold electrolyte |
| Gold concentration | 4 g/L |
| Recommended temperature range | 18–40 °C |
| Recommended pH range | 4.3–4.5 |
| Reference current density | 0.01 A/cm² |
| Recommended current density range | 0.008–0.012 A/cm² |
| Reference deposition rate | 0.15 µm/min |
| Reference conditions | 20 °C and low agitation |
| Specified maximum coating thickness | 4 µm |
| Gold content of deposited coating | 99.9% |
| Specified coating hardness | 190–210 HV |
| Density of deposited gold | 19.3 g/cm³ |
| Cathode efficiency | Approx. 25% at 0.01 A/cm² |
| Internal stress | Medium |
| Recommended maximum bath life | Approx. 5–6 gold turnovers |
| Shelf life | 1 year |
| Storage | Protect from direct sunlight |
| Hazard information | Contains 0.15% potassium cyanide |
| Transport | According to the available information, not classified as dangerous goods for transport; verify against the current SDS |
The deposition data refer to the stated reference conditions. Actual results may vary depending on the workpiece, pretreatment, current distribution, temperature, agitation and plating method.
Operating Parameters for Tank Plating
Current Density
The specified reference current density is 0.01 A/cm², with a recommended range of 0.008–0.012 A/cm².
The appropriate current density depends on the geometry of the workpiece, its effective surface area and the conditions within the bath. Unsuitable or excessive operating values may adversely affect the quality of the gold coating.
Temperature
The specified operating temperature range is 18–40 °C. The reference deposition rate is based on a temperature of 20 °C with low agitation.
Temperature affects the deposition rate and the behaviour of the electrolyte. For reproducible results, operating conditions should be kept as consistent as possible.
pH Value
The specified pH range is 4.3–4.5. The pH should be maintained within the intended operating range. Any adjustment must follow a procedure specifically approved for this product.
Deposition Rate and Coating Thickness
At a current density of 0.01 A/cm², a temperature of 20 °C and low agitation, the specified deposition rate is approximately 0.15 µm/min.
The specified maximum coating thickness is 4 µm. The actual achievable thickness depends on the operating conditions and the condition of the electrolyte.
Important: These reference values do not automatically apply to brush plating. With pen plating, the actual current density and coating results must be assessed under the specific application conditions.
Application in Brush Plating and Pen Plating
In brush plating, electrolyte is transferred to the surface being coated using a suitable electrode and an electrolyte-saturated tampon or applicator. This method is particularly useful for localised gold plating and repair work where the entire workpiece cannot or should not be immersed in a plating bath.
Use of this electrolyte in a brush plating system is conditional on its suitability for the specific equipment and operating method being confirmed.
Required Equipment
Suitable brush plating or pen plating system
Graphite or platinum electrode compatible with the electrolyte
Appropriate tampon or electrode covering
Gold electrolyte containing 4 g/L gold
Suitable DC power supply
Personal protective equipment as specified in the Safety Data Sheet
Application Instructions
1. Prepare the workpiece
Thoroughly clean and degrease the surface. Depending on the base material and coating system, suitable activation may be necessary. The preparation procedure must be appropriate for the substrate and the plating process.
2. Prepare the electrode and tampon
Use a graphite or platinum electrode only if it is compatible with the electrolyte and the equipment. Wet the appropriate tampon with the electrolyte in accordance with the equipment manufacturer's instructions. The tampon must remain sufficiently moist during application without dripping uncontrollably.
3. Check the electrical connections
In conventional electroplating, the workpiece is normally connected as the cathode to the negative terminal, while the suitable working electrode is connected to the positive terminal. The correct configuration must be confirmed against the operating instructions for the specific equipment and its approval for this electrolyte.
4. Set the voltage
A voltage starting at 4 V may be considered only if it is approved for the particular brush plating system and this electrolyte. Voltage is not a universal operating setpoint. The actual current and current density depend, among other factors, on the contact area, pressure, tampon wetting and electrical resistance.
5. Apply the gold coating
Move the wetted tampon evenly across the prepared surface. Maintain consistent movement, adequate wetting and stable electrical contact. Do not allow the tampon to dry out. Determine the appropriate operating values in accordance with the equipment manufacturer's instructions and the requirements of the specific application.
6. Inspect the result
Check the coating for uniformity and adhesion. The achievable coating thickness and deposition rate may differ from those obtained with conventional tank plating.
Important Notes on Brush Plating
The reference deposition rate of 0.15 µm/min at 0.01 A/cm² must not be transferred directly to brush plating without verification. The stated maximum coating thickness and coating quality must also be assessed under the actual application conditions.
Graphite and platinum electrodes may only be used if they are compatible with the electrolyte and the system being used.
Gold Replenishment and Bath Maintenance
During electroplating, gold is deposited from the electrolyte. As the bath is used, the available gold concentration decreases. A suitable gold replenisher specified to contain 16 g/L gold is intended for replenishing the gold consumed.
The required replenishment depends on the actual gold consumption, bath volume and condition of the electrolyte. The following figures illustrate the calculation of gold turnovers and theoretical gold consumption.
Calculating Gold Turnovers
One litre of fresh electrolyte containing 4 g/L gold initially contains 4 g of gold.
| Gold turnovers | Theoretical gold consumption | Gold replenisher containing 16 g/L |
|---|---|---|
| 1 turnover | 4 g gold | 250 ml |
| 5 turnovers | 20 g gold | 1,250 ml |
| 6 turnovers | 24 g gold | 1,500 ml |
The table refers to one litre of starting electrolyte and the calculated replenishment volume required to replace the corresponding amount of gold. It does not replace an assessment of the actual bath concentration or condition. Replenishment must be based on an appropriate calculation and take the liquid volume into account.
The recommended maximum bath life is approximately 5–6 gold turnovers. This is a guideline, not a guarantee that the bath will maintain consistent performance throughout this period.
Evaporation and Liquid Losses
Evaporation can affect the liquid level and concentration of the bath. According to the available product information, evaporation losses should be compensated for at the end of the working day using deionised water, restoring the original liquid level.
Not all liquid losses are caused by evaporation. If electrolyte is carried out of the bath on workpieces, tampons or equipment, both liquid and dissolved gold are lost. These losses must be taken into account when maintaining the bath.
Minimising Gold Losses Through Drag-Out
During tank plating, allow coated workpieces to drain above the bath so that adhering gold-bearing electrolyte can return to the bath. This helps reduce gold losses caused by drag-out.
With brush plating, controlled wetting and careful handling of the electrolyte are also important. Spilled or contaminated solution must not be returned to the bath indiscriminately.
Crystallisation in a Nearly Exhausted Bath
According to the available information, potassium salts may crystallise when the bath is nearing exhaustion. Crystallisation indicates that the condition of the bath should be checked.
Do not simply add water or replenisher and continue working. Determine the cause in accordance with the product-specific instructions and the Safety Data Sheet.
Deposited Gold Coating
The following values are specified for the deposited gold coating:
Gold content: 99.9%
Hardness: 190–210 HV
Density: 19.3 g/cm³
Internal stress: Medium
The actual coating quality depends on workpiece preparation, current conditions, electrolyte condition and operating parameters.
Storage and Shelf Life
Specified shelf life: 1 year
Protect from direct sunlight
Keep the container closed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions
Follow the Safety Data Sheet and product labelling
Prevent access by unauthorised persons
Safety Information
This product contains 0.15% potassium cyanide and requires knowledgeable and safe handling.
Read the current Safety Data Sheet in full before use.
Ensure suitable personal protective equipment and an appropriate workplace are available.
Avoid contact with skin and eyes and do not swallow the product.
Ensure suitable ventilation and safe handling procedures.
Never mix with acids, acidic cleaners or other incompatible chemicals. Contact between cyanide-containing solutions and acids can release highly toxic hydrogen cyanide gas.
Do not allow the electrolyte, rinsing water or residues to enter drains. Dispose of them only in accordance with applicable regulations.
Store only in suitable, clearly labelled and securely closed containers.
The final hazard classification and all mandatory protective measures must be based on the current Safety Data Sheet for the specific product. The absence of a dangerous-goods transport classification does not mean that the product is harmless.
Transport Information
According to the available product information, the electrolyte is not classified as dangerous goods for transport. This statement must be verified against the current Safety Data Sheet and the applicable transport regulations before publication.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much gold does the electrolyte contain?
The electrolyte contains 4 g of gold per litre.
Can this electrolyte be used for brush plating?
It may be suitable for compatible brush plating systems, provided that compatibility of the electrolyte, electrode and operating conditions has been confirmed.
Which electrode can be used for brush plating?
A suitable graphite or platinum electrode may be considered if it is approved for the electrolyte and the equipment being used.
Can I use 4 V for brush plating?
A voltage starting at 4 V may be appropriate for certain devices and applications. However, it is not a universal setpoint. The equipment's permitted operating values and the actual current density are decisive.
How quickly does the electrolyte deposit gold?
For tank plating, the specified rate is approximately 0.15 µm/min at 0.01 A/cm², 20 °C and low agitation. This value cannot be transferred directly to brush plating.
How is gold replenished?
A suitable gold replenisher containing 16 g/L gold is intended for replenishment. The required quantity depends on gold consumption and the condition of the bath.
Is the electrolyte safe if it is not classified as dangerous goods for transport?
No. The product contains potassium cyanide and requires the protective measures specified in the Safety Data Sheet. Transport classification does not determine the product's health hazards.
Gold Electrolyte for Electroplating
This gold electrolyte containing 4 g/L gold offers defined technical specifications for suitable gold plating applications. Follow the operating parameters, bath maintenance instructions and special safety requirements associated with cyanide-containing electrolytes.
Before using the electrolyte in a brush plating system, verify compatibility and the permitted operating conditions.
Pictogram
Signal word Danger
Hazard statement(s)
H302 Harmful if swallowed.
H313 May be harmful in contact with skin.
H317 May cause an allergic skin reaction.
Precautionary statement(s)
P261 Avoid breathing dust/ fume/ gas/ mist/ vapours/spray.
P305 + P351 + P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
HS Code: 3824 99 70