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Activator

Product information "Activator"

Stainless Steel & Nickel Activator – Professional Surface Activation & Pickling Solution

Perfect Adhesion Starts with Proper Surface Activation

This high-performance activator for stainless steel and nickel is a specialized pickling and activation solution designed to prepare metal surfaces for electroplating and coating processes.

It effectively removes oxide layers and passive films that prevent adhesion, ensuring optimal bonding for gold plating, nickel plating, silver plating, chromium plating, and more.


Why Surface Activation is Essential

Even visually clean metal surfaces contain microscopic oxide layers that:

  • reduce electrical conductivity
  • prevent proper coating adhesion
  • cause defects such as peeling, staining, or uneven deposits

This activator eliminates these barriers and creates a chemically active, plating-ready surface.


Key Benefits at a Glance

Ensures excellent coating adhesion
Removes oxides and passivation layers effectively
Suitable for stainless steel, nickel, copper, brass & more
Fast application time – typically 30–60 seconds
Can be used with or without electrical assistance
Essential for professional electroplating results


Typical Applications

  •  Electroplating and surface finishing
  •  Jewelry manufacturing and gold plating
  •  Industrial and precision engineering
  •  Restoration of metal components

Technical Specifications

  • Product type: Activator / pickling solution
  • Application: Pre-treatment before plating
  • Treatment time: approx. 30–60 seconds
  • Voltage (optional): from approx. 2.7 V
  • Process types:
    • immersion (electroless)
    • brush plating / swab method (with current)

Suitable Materials

  • Stainless steel
  • Nickel and passive nickel surfaces
  • Copper
  • Brass
  • Steel and various alloys

How to Use (Step-by-Step Guide)

1. Surface Preparation

  • Polish if required
  • Thoroughly degrease the workpiece

2. Activation (Immersion Method)

  • Immerse the part for 30–60 seconds
  • Rinse thoroughly with water

3. Optional: Electrolytic Activation

  • Use a stainless steel or graphite electrode
  • Apply approx. 2.7 V
  • Treat surface for ~30 seconds

4. Proceed to Plating

  • Plate the part within 10–30 minutes
  • (to avoid re-oxidation)

Pro Tips for Best Results

✔ Plate immediately after activation
✔ Agitation improves uniformity
✔ Combine with proper degreasing for optimal results
✔ Test on sensitive or unknown materials


Common Issues & Solutions

Poor adhesion → insufficient activation or delay before plating
Stains or uneven finish → inadequate cleaning
Dull surface → over-treatment or incorrect parameters
Reduced performance → contaminated solution


Safety Information

  • Signal word: Warning / Danger
  • May cause skin and eye irritation or burns
  • Wear protective gloves and eye protection
  • Avoid direct contact

Environmental Information

  • Dispose of according to local regulations
  • Do not release into wastewater

Why Choose This Activator?

Unlike simple cleaners, this product provides:

  • True chemical activation (not just cleaning)
  • Significantly improved coating adhesion
  • Reliable and reproducible professional results

An essential step for anyone aiming for high-quality electroplating finishes.

Aetzend-betzmann
Aetzend-betzmann

Signal word *** Danger 

 Hazard statements *** 

H314 Causes severe skin burns and serious eye damage. 

H335 May cause respiratory irritation. Precautionary statements *** 

P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. 

P301+P330+P331 IF SWALLOWED: Rinse mouth. DO NOT induce vomiting. 

P303+P361+P353 IF ON SKIN (or hair): Remove all contaminated clothing immediately. Wash skin with water [or shower]. 

P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing. 

P310 Immediately call a POISON CENTER or doctor. 

P501.9 Dispose of contents/container as hazardous waste. 

Hazard-determining component(s) for labeling (Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008) 

contains Citric acid, monohydrate 

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