Electroforming Chemicals
Boric Acid, pH Buffer for Nickel Sulphamate Electroforming
Also known as: Orthoboric Acid, H₃BO₃
Overview
Boric Acid, Product Overview
Boric Acid (H₃BO₃) is an essential bath additive in Nickel Sulphamate electroforming, acting as a pH buffer to maintain stable bath chemistry between pH 3.8 and 4.2. Without adequate Boric Acid, pH fluctuations cause inconsistent deposit quality, roughness, and internal stress variation. Shriji Chemicals® supplies Technical grade Boric Acid, suited to electroforming and electroplating baths, as part of our complete electroforming chemicals range from our facility at Dahanu Road, Maharashtra.
Our Technical grade Boric Acid is supplied as a white crystalline powder. Its solubility in water rises sharply with temperature, so dissolve it in warm water or at bath operating temperature before adding it to the tank, rather than adding dry powder to a cold bath.
Applications
Where Boric Acid is Used
Nickel Sulphamate Bath Buffer
Prevents cathode film acidity which causes pitting and rough deposits.
Nickel-Cobalt Baths
Essential pH stabiliser in all nickel-cobalt electroforming formulations.
Electroplating
Used widely in decorative and functional nickel electroplating baths.
Quick Facts
FAQ
Common Questions about Boric Acid
What concentration of Boric Acid should I use?
Typically 30 to 45 g/L in a Nickel Sulphamate bath. Maintain at the higher end of this range for high-current-density operations where cathode film acidity is more pronounced.
How often should I replenish Boric Acid?
Boric Acid is not consumed in electroforming, it is gradually lost through dragout and evaporation. Analyse bath periodically and replenish as needed.
Can I use Boric Acid in a Watts nickel bath?
Yes, Boric Acid is standard in Watts nickel baths as well as Nickel Sulphamate baths.
Why does Boric Acid crystallise in my bath?
Boric Acid solubility falls as temperature drops. If a bath held at the upper end of the concentration range cools well below operating temperature, Boric Acid can crystallise on tank walls and heaters. Keep the bath at temperature, or redissolve by warming and agitating.
Related Products
Also Available from Shriji Chemicals®
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