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Re: [TCML] Brush copper plating onto polystyrene

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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