Plating Corner > Who and When
Who and When
Ancient Civilization
Plating technology originated in ancient civilizations like Egypt, Mesopotamia, Greece, and Rome, where methods such as applying molten tin and gilding were used to coat objects with thin layers of precious metals.
18th Century
Modern plating saw significant advancements during the Industrial Revolution, notably with Alessandro Volta's invention of the voltaic pile in 1800. This led to the development of electroplating, with Luigi Valentino Brugnatelli successfully depositing gold onto silver in 1805, marking the birth of modern electroplating. Commercial electroplating began in 1840 when the Elkington Company patented gold and silver electroplating processes, expanding its application from decorative to industrial uses.
Modern Time
By the late 19th century, advancements in electrolyte chemistry and current control improved plating film quality, and electroless plating emerged, allowing coatings on non-conductive materials.
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