electrodeposition

Electrodeposition is a chemical process where a metal coating is applied to a surface using an electric current. This technique is crucial in metallurgy, where most important metals, except iron and steel, are obtained or refined through electrodeposition from molten salts or aqueous solutions.123

The process involves a cathode (the object to be plated) and an anode in a conductive solution. When an electric current is applied, metal ions from the solution are attracted to the cathode, where they gain electrons and deposit as a solid metal coating. This method can be used on both conductive and non-conductive surfaces, provided the latter are made conductive first. Electroplating is widely used for decorative purposes, corrosion resistance, and to improve wear resistance.2