Surfactants are widely used throughout the entire process of electroplating technology.
Here is a brief explanation of some functions:
Application in Alkaline Degreasing
Before metal parts are electroplated, they must first undergo degreasing and cleaning to ensure a clean surface. Otherwise, the deposit layer will not bond properly to the surface, and in severe cases, no deposit layer can be formed. Typical degreasing solution formula for carbon steel parts: trisodium phosphate 30-40g/L, OP emulsifier 1-2g/L, 30-50°C. Oil污 on the workpiece surface includes animal and vegetable fats and mineral oils. Animal and vegetable fats can undergo saponification reactions in alkaline solutions, forming water-soluble soaps and glycerin, which are then removed. Mineral oils or other non-saponifiable oils cannot be chemically decomposed using alkalis; instead, they must be removed from the metal surface with the help of surfactants. During the degreasing process, surfactant molecules first adsorb at the interface between oil and solution. The oil污 is then removed from the metal surface under the action of the surfactant's hydrophobic and hydrophilic groups, along with the convection and stirring effects of the solution, gradually detaching and entering the solution, forming an emulsion in the form of extremely tiny droplets. Of course, when using emulsifiers for degreasing, the solution temperature must not be too high, as the surfactants can undergo salt precipitation, losing their intended function.
