Re: [TCML] Brush copper plating onto polystyrene

["Derek, Extreme Electronics" <tesla@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Sorry Matt, I blame blurry eyes from posting too early...

    I've used aluminium tape a lot, but I'm never happy with the 
result, especially over polystyrene. To get the strength to be able to 
burnish the alu you need to make a hard shell of something around the 
poly former (I've tied many coatings) sanded smooth. The results is 
either too thin and deforms when burnishing or too thick and has lost 
the surface shape after sanding.
    Conductive paint works well doesn't require burnishing and if it is 
sprayed the surface finish is even better, although the conductivity 
will be less, maybe loads of layers will help. For protective rings it 
would be ideal (although black). You would need to be careful about 
corona or discharge as it is easily spark eroded.
    I love the idea of copper plating, both aesthetically and to 
increase conductivity. It also may protect the surface from corona 
etching too. Please post your results (and methods)
Derek

On 18/10/2018 02:04, Matthew Sweeney wrote:
> Hi Derek, it was me who actually asked the original question :)
>
> I planned on using MG Chemicals Nickle conductive primer spray, and then
> brush plating with copper. The polystyrene forms are nice because you can
> fill any small dents with sandable filler or even hot glue.
>
> My first attempt at making copper rings failed because although I made a
> 'perfect' circle I could not get a clean joint. If I had a welder, grinder,
> and a place to use them I might be able to do better.
>
> In the meantime this seems a quick and easy method I can do with few tools
> in limited space (fan with window open when needed of course).
>
> Thanks,
>
> Matt
>
>
>
>
>
>
> On Tue, Oct 16, 2018, 8:01 PM Tesla <tesla@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:
>
> > Antonio,
> >
> >       I've tried to make spheres with conductive paint
> > https://www.bareconductive.com/. You need a very good surface for the
> > paint to adhere and to give a smooth end finish. I haven't tried spray
> > painting, but I'm told it is possible.
> >
> >       I'd start with a primer on to the polystyrene, to seal, give you a
> > good surface finish and help the conductive paint to adhere.
> >
> >       I found that diluting the conductive paint 50/50 gave the best
> > finish on to a smooth plastic surface although with a higher resistance
> > than 100% paint.
> >
> >       I would love to see your results..
> >
> >       Derek
> >
> > On 15/10/2018 19:35, Antonio Queiroz wrote:
> > > Em 15/10/2018 11:39, Matthew Sweeney escreveu:
> > > > As title suggests, I'm planning as follows:
> > > >
> > > > 1. Various sized cheap polystyrene rings (e.g 4x1 inch)
> > > > 2. Prime with nickle or graphite spray paint.
> > > > 3. Brush copper plate.
> > > > 4. Polish/Buff
> > > >
> > > > The purpose is for primary charge induction and trap terminals in a
> > > > Kelvin
> > > > thunderstom machine, and for investigating constuction of cheap Corona
> > > > rings.
> > > >
> > > > Has anyone tried this method previously, or have any
> > > > suggestions/recommendations? Note this is intended as a cheap method
> > > > even
> > > > If the results are not 'perfect'.
> > > Adhesive aluminum tape is good for this purpose. No need for any
> > > priming and the result is quite good.
> > >
> > > Antonio Carlos M. de Queiroz
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