Part 5/7:
Throughout these steps, Paul emphasizes safety considerations — including the potential toxicity of silver nitrate, which can be hazardous if inhaled or touched — and acknowledges the importance of protective gear like nitrile gloves and masks.
Proceeding to the Plating Process
Once the electrolyte solution is prepared, the actual electroplating can commence. While Paul’s video does not reach this stage in the transcript, the general process involves:
- Preparing the Copper Surface:
Cleaning the copper piece thoroughly to remove any oils or oxidation that could inhibit adhesion.
- Connecting the Circuit:
Attaching the copper workpiece to the cathode side of the power supply, with a suitable anode (often a silver electrode).
- Running the Electroplating: