Abstract

Electroless plating is the formation of a metallic coating on a metallic or nonmetallic surface by means of a chemical reaction between metal ions and a reducing agent in an aqueous solution. Also called autocatatalytic plating, the process is useful for improving the properties of metallic substrates and providing conductivity to nonmetalic ones. Although it is more costly than more commonly used electrolytic plating, electroless deposits are able to provide functional properties not obtained in any other manner, such as wear and corrosion resistance as well as uniformity of deposition. A broad range of industry utilizes electroless technology including automotive parts, computer hard drives and electronic circuit boards and components.