Electrodeposition of the Metals of the Platinum Group

Of the six platinum metals, rhodium only is at present being electroplated on an extensive commercial scale. However, further research on suitable plating baths for the other five metals, notably for platinum and palladium, which are far more abundant than rhodium, will undoubtedly lead to eventual adoption of these metals by the plating industry. Details as to the rhodium bath composition and operation are presented, together with formulas for platinum and palladium plating baths suitable for flash coats. An undercoat of nickel is recommended for most cases.