Nickel plating on wood and wood composite surfaces: Characterization of surface durability

Abstract

In this study, the performance of nickel plating on wooden surfaces was investigated. Black pine (BP), medium density fiber board (MDF) and particle board (PB) were used for the wooden samples. After the sample surfaces were sanded with 200, 500 and 1000 grit sandpaper and varnished with polyurethane varnish (150 g/m2), they were nickel plated using a spray gun and compressed air. After drying the samples at room temperature for 72 h, scratch analyses were performed according to TS EN 15186 (2012) and TS EN ISO 2409 (2020) and abrasion analyses were performed according to TS EN 13329 +A. The staining resistance of the samples was determined according to the DIN 53799 standard. According to the results, surface strength of the MDF samples was lower than those of PB and BP. The scratch analysis results for the black nickel coating were lower than those for TS EN 15186 (2012). However, it was higher according to TS EN ISO 2409 (2020) scratch analysis. In terms of stain resistance, all samples were found to be resistant to water, soap, tea, and acetone stains, except for coffee stains. Upon visual examination, a slight coffee stain was observed on the sample surfaces. As a result, in the light of surface strength analysis, it was concluded that the surfaces of wooden boards are not suitable for nickel plating.