Electroless nickel-cadmium plating is a non-toxic chemical procedure which deposits an extremely thin layer of cadmium-based alloy on the surface of any solid surface, such as steel or aluminum. It is ideally suited for use in applications requiring high strength and impact resistance, since it leaves minimal residue behind. The best known applications are bumpers and concentric platers.
Electroless nickel plating, such as that from Poeton also offers excellent corrosion resistance, even under extreme conditions. Because the cadmium compounds used in this process do not accumulate on the surfaces during the plating process, there is no residual build up, and there is no accumulation of hard deposits such as salt, etc. This results in a faster and cleaner process with less mess and debris to clean up. This also means there is less work needed to keep the plates clean, and it is easier to identify hotspots and other problems early on.
There are two types of electroless nickel plating. In one type, the phosphorus is replaced by potassium, thus creating a compound with a higher conductivity than the original element. In the other type, the phosphorus is replaced by the cadmium copper phosphate, forming a compound with a lower conductivity than the original element. Both types of compounds offer excellent corrosion protection to metals, but the higher conductivity of the copper phosphate has a more drastic effect on the overall corrosion wear-ability of the metal in general. This is why both processes are typically blended to create corrosion resistant alloys. Since there is a large price difference between the two, it is important to purchase the proper material to achieve the best protection.