Low Hydrogen Embrittlement Zinc-Nickel Electroplating: An Alternative to Cadmium-Update

A zinc-nickel (Zn-Ni) alloy electroplating process has been developed which provides equivalent or superior performance to cadmium (Cd) plating in the following areas: corrosion protection, low hydrogen embrittlement, lubricity, torque tension, installation force, and electrical conductivity. In addition, it offers reduced tendency for exfoliation corrosion of coupled or contacting aluminum structure as compared to Cd plating. Conventional electroplating tank facilities can be converted to the Zn-Ni process with minimal modification. The elimination of Cd and cyanide reduce the waste hazard significantly, and the excellent technical performance makes the low hydrogen embrittlement Zn-Ni electroplating process a viable alternative to Cd plating of high- and low-strength steels in aircraft and other applications.

This paper is an update of progress for development and implementation of the process during 1983.