DIN Standards Committee Materials Testing
Testing of electrolytes used for electro-deposited metallic coatings - Test involving electro-deposition - Part 2: Special test cells
Abstract
This document specifies two test methods using special test cells or test specimens and facilitates the comparison of results obtained by different testers. In general, these test methods are suitable for many types of electrolytes. Testing with angled cathode plates is frequently used for copper, nickel, bright chrome, black chrome, tin, and weakly acidic zinc electrolytes. It is also used for testing alloy deposits, such as white bronze or brass, from electroplating baths. This test method is also well-suited for testing multilayer systems, e.g., copper plus nickel plus chromium, and for testing for particles in the electrolyte that cause roughness, or to determine whether such particles are incorporated into the electroplated layer during deposition. The Lang cell described here is particularly suitable for testing alkaline zinc and zinc alloy electrolytes. The test methods described here are intended to supplement the standard Hull cell (see DIN 50957-1). They enable a differentiated evaluation of the deposition behavior of the electrolytes, particularly with regard to the appearance of the coatings (glossy or matte appearance, discoloration, burn-on behavior) and/or macro-spreadability (metal distribution (“depth spread” or coverage) and gloss formation in the various current density ranges. With their help, the effects of electroplating conditions—such as cathodic current density, temperature, agitation, and electrolyte composition (including metal content(s), gloss enhancers, wetting agents, or impurities)—on the properties of the coating can be tested. By varying the deposition parameters and/or the electrolyte composition, the effects on deposition or the metal coating can be determined.
Begin
2026-08-06
Planned document number
DIN 50957-2
Project number
06236731
Responsible national committee
NA 062-02-101 AA - Measuring and test methods for coatings and coating systems
