PROCESS MODELING OF A NOVEL PLASMA ASSISTED ALLOY PLATING

Zinc and cadmium electroplating in cyanide baths is known to generate large quantities of hazardous solid and liquid waste. As a consequence, an innovative dry plating process has been developed. This process would eliminate liquids, and minimize solid waste using situ reclaim. This plasma assisted dry plating would be an economical alternative to electroplating. In recent years, zinc-cadmium alloy plating has shown promise for reducing toxic cadium plating. This zinc-cadmium alloy can be plated using the dry plating process. However, a basic understanding of the process and its effects could be explored. A systematic research using statistical experimental design method is proposed to develop this understanding. In addition, the frictional properties of the alloy as a function of composition will be studied for potential application. Successful completion of this research could lead to substantial reduction in hazardous waste in many defense plating operations.