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How to Electroplate Copper With Zinc

Electroplating is the process of depositing a layer of metal onto an object. It uses DC, direct current, from a battery source or AC-to-DC converter. You place a negatively charged object into a liquid solution of dissolved metal salts that has a positive charge. The negative charge pulls the metal salts onto the object, giving it a smooth coat. Since copper is highly conductive, you can readily electroplate it with zinc. You can purchase zinc solutions at many hobby stores. Some use zinc strips while others use zinc dissolved in the liquid.

Things You'll Need

Rubber gloves
Nail file
Isopropyl alcohol
Lint-free rag
Battery holder
D cell battery
2 wire leads with connecting alligator clips
Electrical tape
Glass container
Zinc plating solution kit

Instructions

- 1
  Clean the copper with soap and water while wearing rubber gloves, then rinse thoroughly. Dirt will partially block electrical current so cleaning is an important part of the process. Sand any stains or burrs off the copper gently with a nail file and rinse the dust off under running water. Finally, use isopropyl alcohol with a cloth to remove grease and oils, then let the copper dry. To avoid depositing body oils, don't touch it.
- 2
  Attach one wire lead to the negative (black) wire on the battery holder using the alligator clip. Clip the other end onto the copper piece. Connect the second wire lead to the positive (red) wire from the battery holder in the same manner. Wrap a small piece of electrical tape around the positive connection to the battery holder.
- 3
  Prepare the zinc plating solution in the glass container. Follow the amounts the manufacturer recommends for the size of the copper piece.
- 4
  Immerse the copper piece in the container with the alligator clip near the top of the liquid at one side of the container. Insert the D cell battery into the battery holder. Hold the positive lead wire approximately 2 inches from the clip and place it in the zinc solution at the opposite side of the container. If you're using a zinc strip, connect it to the alligator clip before inserting the live lead wire into the solution. Watch as the zinc coats the copper. The process usually takes only a few seconds.
- 5
  Pull the object out of the solution holding the wire and check the coating of zinc. You can place it back in to put more zinc onto the copper if necessary. Once you're satisfied with the results, squeeze the alligator clip and the battery pack connection and lift the zinc-plated object out of the solution. Hang it to dry using the alligator clip. Remove the battery from the holder and clean up according to the instructions on the zinc kit.

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