Simple, Cheap, Electroplating

I always have a few things on my lists of to-dos. I finally reached my Electroplating one and did a bit of research. I found that, not only does it take a lot of money, it also is fairly corrosive. So I found a better and simpler way using household items.

Step 1 Get the Parts

You will need:
1 half cup of vinegar (double for bigger proportions.)
1 tablespoon of Salt (double for bigger proportions.)
2 bowls (plastic, takeout containers...nothing expensive.)
4/5 batteries with accompanying holders (double AA, non-rechargeable, with about 1 volt left in each-you may need 5 if you only have 1 volt per.)
Coins: Quarters, Pennies (Find one dated before 1982.) (Pennies are more successful...believe me.)
Copper Tape (Only if you can't find a penny or don't want to.)
2 aligator clip jumper wires (unless you are using copper tape.)
Tape (Scotch)

Comments

[Higgs Boson]

I've done something similar to this using copper sulfate solution and a nine volt battery. I got the positive ions to coat the negative electrode with a thin layer of copper. I like your way a lot better though, because copper sulfate is toxic, the negative ions are a component of sulfuric acid ( the positive electrode was made of tin foil and holes were corroded through it which I found very scary), you need to take steps to neutralize the substance before disposing of it, and it is more difficult to obtain. I like the simplicity of your method a lot.

[blinkyblinky]

1. Thank you

2. I like your idea except for the chemicals.

3. Your voltage was higher.

4. I won't write anything here. This number is unlucky in Chinese.

5. Its not my idea.

6. If you are reading this you must go back and read 5.

7. End.

[sunshiine]

So Cool! I love the look! I will try this sometime and when I do I will post it here. Thanks for sharing!
Sunshiine

[blinkyblinky]

You're welcome.