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How to Electroplate Metal at Home

Electroplating is a quick and easy way to add luster to an object or provide additional protection from corrosion or rust. The process involves transferring the metal ions from one object -- such as copper -- to another -- like a nail -- via an acidic solution. The process has been around since the early 1800s to transfer metals such as copper, zinc and gold to other objects. You can take a copper object and plate it in gold or silver for added luster.

Things You'll Need

Plastic or glass container
Vinegar
9-volt battery
Alligator clips
Nail
Source metal, such as copper

Instructions

- 1
  Fill the container with the vinegar. Vinegar is also known as acetic acid and is the medium for transferring the metal ions from one object to another. Set the container on a stable surface, such as a table.
- 2
  Place the battery near the container. Connect one set of alligator clips to the positive terminal and the other set to the negative terminal.
- 3
  Connect the alligator clip of the positive anode to the source metal, then connect the alligator clip of the negative anode to the nail to be electroplated.
- 4
  Place both objects into the solution. The ions transfer from the positively-charged source metal, coating the nail. It may take several hours for the nail to be plated, depending on the size of the object, strength of the electric current and number of electrons given off the by the source metal.

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