How to copper plate materials using electrolysis

3D prints, pendants, acorns... but make them shiny!

In this new workshop series at the SPH Life Science Lab, you will learn the basics of electrolysis, and how this can be used to coat objects in a layer of copper (or other metals).

We will provide varnish and graphite paint to seal and coat items in a conductive layer, and demonstrate the electrolysis set-up to copper plate your items in the Life Science Lab.

Whilst we will be providing some trinkets (e.g. small 3D prints) that can be copper plated, we strongly encourage bringing your own items! Check out the introductions to 3D printing at SPH Zentrum and Hönggerberg. Note that we can currently only accommodate sizes up to circa a ping-pong ball for copper plating - so keep things small!

If you are working with natural materials (leaves, nuts, acorns) these need to be dried at 42°C for 48 hrs, before coating in a layer of varnish. Get in touch if you would like to pursue this option.

Please note: The varnish and graphite coating steps require drying times, and we cannot copper plate all pieces simultaneously, so you will get to see a demo. Your finished pieces can be picked up circa one week after the workshop, at your chosen location (SPH Zentrum or Hönggerberg).

Registration

This is an event for ETH students and can host 10 participants. The number of participants is limited to give you personalized support. Please register only if you are sure you can come on the day and time indicated. If something happens and you cannot come, cancel your registration as soon as possible. Please do not cancel last minute!