Conductive Coatings – Non-Conductive Surfaces
Conductive Paint for Non-Conductive Surfaces – Copper and Silver Conductive Coatings for Electroplating Applications
Conductive coatings (conductive paints) are used to make non-conductive surfaces electrically conductive, enabling reliable metal deposition in electroplating processes. They are an essential prerequisite for applications such as brush plating, tampon plating, and bath plating, especially on materials like plastics, ceramics, glass, and other insulating substrates.
By creating a conductive layer, an even current distribution is achieved, allowing for controlled and high-quality metal deposition.
Copper Conductive Paint – Cost-Effective Solution for Standard Applications
Copper conductive paint is a proven and economical solution for creating electrically conductive surfaces.
Advantages of copper conductive paint:
- Good electrical conductivity after drying
- Highly cost-efficient for larger areas and series production
- Versatile use in brush plating, tampon plating, and bath plating
However, copper layers tend to oxidize on the surface over time, which can affect direct electroplating performance. Therefore, an activation step in an acidic copper electrolyte is usually required before starting the plating process.
Silver Conductive Paint – Maximum Conductivity and Direct Process Capability
Silver conductive paint is the premium solution for applications requiring maximum process reliability and direct electroplating without additional preparation steps.
Advantages of silver conductive paint:
- Very high electrical conductivity
- Long-term stable conductivity without oxidation issues
- Directly electroplatable without activation
- Ideal for fine structures, precision parts, and sensitive surfaces
Because of its stable conductive surface, electroplating can begin immediately, simplifying the process and reducing potential error sources.
Copper vs. Silver Conductive Paint – Key Differences
Copper conductive paint is best suited for cost-sensitive standard applications, where an additional activation step is acceptable. Silver conductive paint, on the other hand, offers higher process reliability and efficiency, as it enables direct electroplating without intermediate steps.
| Feature | Copper Conductive Paint | Silver Conductive Paint |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Low | Higher |
| Conductivity | Good | Very high |
| Oxidation | Possible | Negligible |
| Activation required | Yes | No |
| Process reliability | Medium | High |
Applications
Conductive coatings are typically used in:
- Brush plating (selective metal deposition)
- Tampon plating (localized electroplating on complex geometries)
- Bath plating (full-surface coating)
- Repair and restoration of metallic coatings
- Prototype development and small-series production
Conclusion
The choice between copper and silver conductive paint depends on the application requirements:
- Copper conductive paint: cost-effective, flexible, and ideal for standard processes with an additional activation step
- Silver conductive paint: technically superior, directly electroplatable, and ideal for high-precision and process-critical applications
Copper plates: This accessory is another Real Gold innovation. It prevents scratches or burn marks caused by the crocodile clip and increases the conductivity on the surface.
Copper Alligator Clip - Negative Terminal Clip: Always use only as a negative terminal! This allows you to secure the clip in a hidden location or attach the negative terminal to a hidden location. Rust-proof and durable. The very soft clip prevents scratches during contact. Rust-proof and long-lasting, zinc-free, these clips pose no risk of contamination – plus they last up to 200 times longer than plated clips.
Create Electrically Conductive Surfaces Quickly and Easily Our Silver Conductive Spray is a premium-quality conductive coating formulated with 16 g of real silver to create highly conductive surfaces on non-conductive materials. It is the ideal solution for electroplating preparation, electronic applications, EMI/RFI shielding, prototype development, and industrial manufacturing. The convenient aerosol format provides an even, professional-quality coating, making it perfect for both flat and complex-shaped components. Key Features ✔ High electrical conductivity ✔ Formulated with 16 g of real silver ✔ Easy, uniform spray application ✔ Excellent adhesion on properly prepared surfaces ✔ Fast drying ✔ Ideal primer for electroplating ✔ Suitable for decorative and technical applications ✔ Professional industrial quality Ideal Applications Perfect for: Electroplating preparation Plastic metallization Making non-conductive surfaces electrically conductive Glass metallization Ceramic coating Conductive coating for wood Electronics manufacturing PCB prototyping Electrical contact repair Jewelry manufacturing and restoration Model making EMI shielding RFI shielding ESD protection Decorative metal finishing Preservation and metallization of flowers and natural materials Laboratory and research applications Perfect Base for Electroplating After drying, the conductive coating forms an excellent foundation for electroplating. For optimum plating quality, apply a bright copper electrolyte or acid copper electrolyte before continuing with nickel, silver, gold, rhodium, chrome, or other decorative and functional metal coatings. This process improves adhesion, coating thickness, corrosion resistance, and the final surface finish. Easy Application Clean and degrease the surface thoroughly. Apply a suitable plastic primer if required. Shake the aerosol can vigorously before use. Apply several thin coats using a cross-spray pattern. Allow 5–15 minutes between coats. Let the coating dry completely before electroplating. Technical Specifications Product Type: Silver Conductive Spray Volume: 150 ml Silver Content: 16 g of real silver Application Method: Aerosol spray Purpose: Creating electrically conductive surfaces Suitable for: Brush plating, pen plating, and bath plating Color: Silver Drying Time: Approximately 5–15 minutes between coats Quality: Professional industrial grade Why Choose Silver Conductive Spray? Silver has the highest electrical conductivity of all metals, making it the preferred material for conductive coatings and electroplating preparation. The high silver content ensures excellent conductivity, while the aerosol application provides fast, even coverage on large, detailed, or complex-shaped parts. Whether you are preparing components for electroplating, repairing electrical circuits, or creating EMI shielding, this conductive spray delivers reliable, professional-quality performance. Package Contents 1 × Silver Conductive Spray (150 ml) Safety Information Signal Word: Danger Extremely flammable aerosol. Pressurized container: may burst if heated. Use only in well-ventilated areas. Wear suitable protective gloves and eye protection. Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames, and hot surfaces. Do not spray onto open flames or other ignition sources. Keep out of reach of children. Always read the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) before use.
Content: 0.15 Liter (€396.67 / 1 Liter)
Acid Bright Copper Electrolyte BMG 095.2 – Mirror Finish, Conductivity & Premium Results The Acid Bright Copper Electrolyte BMG 095.2 is a high-performance plating solution designed for depositing mirror-bright, highly conductive copper layers in bath plating, pen plating, and tampon plating applications. Its optimized formulation ensures smooth, brilliant and high-gloss copper deposits, making it ideal both as a decorative finish and as a base layer for further coatings such as nickel or gold. Suitable for beginners and professionals alike, this electrolyte delivers consistent, high-quality results. Key Benefits at a Glance Mirror-bright, high-gloss copper finishes Excellent electrical conductivity Strong adhesion on metallic substrates Suitable for: Bath electroplating Pen plating Tampon plating Ideal for decorative and technical applications Fast and uniform deposition Applications Jewelry manufacturing & finishing Decorative high-gloss surfaces PCB and electronics Model making & precision engineering Base layer for gold or nickel plating Technical ParametersThe following values represent typical operating parameters for acid bright copper electrolytes:PropertyValue / RangeElectrolyte typeAcid bright copper electrolytepH valueapprox. 1Operating temperature15–50 °CVoltage (tank plating)0.5–2.5 V (recommended ~1–1.5 V at 10 cm electrode distance)Voltage (brush / pen plating)1.2–4.5 V (recommended ~3 V)Current density0.6–5 A/dm² (up to ~7 A/dm² with agitation)Deposition rateapprox. 1 µm/min at 5 A/dm² and 20 °CAnode materialCopper or graphiteSuitable substratesCopper, brass, stainless steel, acid-resistant metalsNot suitable without pretreatmentAluminum, chromium, zinc, tin, titaniumImportant:Acid-sensitive metals such as steel, iron or zinc must first be pre-plated with an alkaline copper electrolyte before using this acid copper system. Application Guide (Beginner to Professional) 1. Surface Preparation (critical for mirror finish) Thoroughly degrease the workpiece Activate/pickle for a clean metallic surface Rinse with distilled water Do not touch the surface afterwards 2. Bath Plating (for perfect mirror finishes) Fully immerse the workpiece Apply DC current within recommended range Agitation improves brightness and uniformity Plate until desired thickness is achieved Ideal for uniform, high-gloss coatings 3. Pen Plating (precision bright repair) Apply electrolyte via felt or sponge tip Move evenly across the surface Start with low voltage, increase gradually Perfect for localized high-gloss applications 4. Tampon Plating (controlled bright application) Soak the tampon with electrolyte Apply evenly to the surface Maintain consistent pressure and motion Ideal for hard-to-reach areas Pro Tips for Maximum Brightness Perfect cleaning = maximum mirror finish Avoid excessive current density → may cause dull areas Agitation significantly improves surface quality Keep solution clean and uncontaminated Maintain stable temperature Conclusion The Acid Bright Copper Electrolyte BMG 095.2 is the perfect solution for achieving high-gloss, conductive and visually flawless copper coatings. Whether for decorative or technical use, it delivers reliable, professional-grade results every time. Practical Application Notes Surface preparation: Thorough degreasing and cleaning are essential No grease, fingerprints or residues should remain on the surface Tank plating: Maintain recommended voltage and current density Keep appropriate distance between anode and cathode Brush / pen plating: Keep the plating pad in constant motion for uniform deposition Temperature: Can be used at room temperature or heated up to 50 °C for improved deposition behavior Safety Information Acid copper electrolytes contain acidic components and copper salts and must be handled carefully: Wear chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles and protective clothing Avoid contact with skin and eyes In case of contact, rinse immediately with plenty of water Use only in well-ventilated areas Do not inhale vapors or aerosols Do not discharge into drains or the environment Keep out of reach of children Always observe the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and applicable hazard labeling. Scope of Delivery Acid Bright Copper Electrolyte BMG-095.1 Quantity according to selection
Content: 0.1 Liter (€90.00 / 1 Liter)
Copper Conductive Paint BMG-058-K.2 Electrically conductive copper paint for repair, conductivity improvement and contact paths Short Description The Copper Conductive Paint BMG-058-K.2 is a ready-to-use, electrically conductive coating and repair paint based on copper. It is designed for spot or area repair of conductive paths, electrification of surfaces, and filling small breaks in conductors, as well as for creating electrically conductive layers on non-metal parts. The paint delivers good conductivity, adheres reliably to many substrates, and can be used in a wide range of electronics, fine mechanics, and industrial applications. Applications The copper conductive paint is used for: Repair and restoration of conductor tracks on PCBs, contacts and circuits Creating conductive connections on non-metallic supports Filling small discontinuities in conductive elements and contact points Improving electrical transitions during assembly or repair Prototyping and fine wiring in electronic and electrical projects It is suitable for workshop, hobby, and professional repair and assembly tasks. How It Works (Simple Explanation) Conductive paint contains finely dispersed copper particles. After application and drying, the paint forms an electrically conductive layer as the copper particles connect within the film: Prepare the surface: Clean and degrease the area. Apply the paint: Use a brush, applicator, or fine needle to apply. Dry / Cure: The paint dries and becomes electrically conductive. Post-work: Mechanically refine or electroplate over the conductive layer if needed. Benefits of Copper Conductive Paint BMG-058-K.2 Electrically conductive coating immediately after drying Good adhesion on metal, plastic, and ceramics Easy to apply with basic tools Repair-friendly for conductive paths and contacts Versatile use in electronics, sensors, and fine mechanical assemblies Can serve as a pre-layer for electroplating Technical Parameters (Guidelines) PropertyValue / RangeProduct typeElectrically conductive copper paintCompositionCopper-filled coating systemConductivityElectrically conductiveDryingAir dry or gentle heating to accelerateAdhesionGood on metal, plastic, ceramicApplicationBrush, applicator, precision tipLayer thicknessSeveral micrometers (µm), application-dependentCuringAmbient conditions, relative humidity relevant Practical Application Tips Preparation: Clean and degrease thoroughly. Application: Apply the paint in thin layers to the desired area. For higher conductivity, apply multiple thin layers. Drying: Allow to dry at room temperature; gentle heating can speed curing. Aftercare: Once fully dry, the layer can be mechanically worked on or plated over. Safety Information Conductive paints contain chemical solvents and must be handled safely: Wear protective gloves and eye protection Avoid contact with skin and eyes Work in a well-ventilated area Do not ingest; keep out of reach of children Avoid eating, drinking or smoking while working Dispose of according to local chemical waste regulations Conclusion The Copper Conductive Paint BMG-058-K.2 is a practical and electrically conductive coating and repair solution. It is ideal for creating and repairing conductive paths, improving connectivity, and as a foundation for further plating steps. With simple application, reliable adhesion, and good conductivity, it is suited for workshops, professionals and electronics enthusiasts alike.
Content: 0.05 Liter (€420.00 / 1 Liter)
Copper Brightener (Acid / PP Stabilizer) Short Description The Copper Brightener (acid / PP stabilizer) is a performance additive for acidic and PP copper electroplating solutions that enhances the brightness, smoothness, and quality of plated copper layers. It can also revitalize used electrolyte solutions, restoring their ability to produce highly reflective and even copper finishes. What Is This Brightener Used For? This brightener is used to: Improve the brightness of copper electroplated surfaces Enhance performance of acidic and PP copper baths Refresh spent plating solutions for renewed performance Use in bath and pen plating for both decorative and functional coatings How the Brightener Works (Simple Explanation) Special additives in electroplating solutions help refine the deposition process so that copper deposits smoothly, evenly, and with higher gloss. This brightener is added to the electrolyte and works directly within the plating bath: Prepare and operate your copper electrolyte as usual. Add the brightener: e.g., approx. 4 mL per 1 L of electrolyte. Mix and plate: The electrolyte now deposits highly reflective copper immediately. Benefits of the Copper Brightener Enhanced brightness and surface quality of copper coatings Simple to add to both fresh and used electrolytes Suitable for acidic and PP copper solutions Ideal for bath and pen plating Produces smooth, decorative finishes Application Notes Recommended dosage: approx. 4 mL additive per 1 L electrolyte Mix thoroughly before plating Performance may vary with electrolyte condition, temperature and current; test runs advised Safety Instructions Wear protective gloves and eye protection Avoid contact with skin and eyes Rinse thoroughly with water if contact occurs Use only in well‑ventilated areas Do not ingest; keep out of reach of children Dispose of chemical waste according to local regulations Conclusion The Copper Brightener (acid / PP stabilizer) is a practical additive that significantly improves the gloss and quality of copper electroplating results. It is easy to use and especially valuable for applications where bright, smooth, high‑quality copper finishes are desired, whether in decorative or functional electroplating.
Content: 0.05 Liter (€396.00 / 1 Liter)