In-Process Contaminant Removal from Hard Chromium Plating Baths Using a Fuel Cell Electrode Ion-Exchange Membrane Process (FCMP)

摘要

A fuel cell cathode / ion exchange membrane process (FCMP), which removes contaminants continuously from hard chrome plating baths while effecting energy savings, has been designed conceptually and verified experimentally on laboratory scale. This paper reports initial cell design and testing for contaminant removal. Laboratory studies conducted at room temperature (25 deg C) and at constant current indicate the feasibility of the FCMP process and its potential benefits when integrated into industrial-scale plating operations. The principal benefits of the FCMP process are continuous regeneration of the plating bath and energy savings in the separation of contaminant metals. Further experimental studies to optimize the fuel cell cathode structure and field-work to achieve integration with industrial-scale operations are needed.