Method for varnishing plated parts

Abstract

A method is provided for plating a non-metal substrate (S), allowing a plated part to be obtained. The method includes steps of: (a) providing a non-metal substrate (S) having a surface (11); (b) forming a bonding layer (C1) on the surface (11); (c) forming at least one reinforcement layer (C2) on the bonding layer (C1); (d) forming a varnish layer (C4) above the reinforcement layer (C2); and performing a drying step to dry the varnish layer, wherein the varnish layer is exposed to ultraviolet radiation.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates to the field of methods for plating parts and in particular non-metal substrates. Different manners are known to plate a non-metal substrate.[0002]In particular, dry processes are known using plasma or flame spray. Vacuum plating methods are also known such as PVD for example. However, these methods have the disadvantage of being relatively costly due to the energy required and the conditions under which they must be performed. Additionally, they are difficult to apply at industrial level.[0003]Plating methods are also known via electrolytic route whereby a layer of chromium is deposited.[0004]One advantage of this type of method is the obtaining of plated parts having a metal appearance. These parts are particularly used in the motor vehicle industry.[0005]However, chromium and in particular hexavalent chromium used for plating has the drawback of being toxic for the environment. Hexavalent chromium requires closed circ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a method to protect parts from corrosion and impacts by applying a layer of varnish on top of a reinforcement layer or a nickel layer. This modification can be beneficial because it allows existing parts to have a metal appearance while also reducing their environmental impact.

Problems solved by technology

However, these methods have the disadvantage of being relatively costly due to the energy required and the conditions under which they must be performed.

Additionally, they are difficult to apply at industrial level.

However, chromium and in particular hexavalent chromium used for plating has the drawback of being toxic for the environment.

The cost involved for the production of plated parts is therefore high.

Trivalent chromium is also a toxic chemical product.

Trivalent chromium raises the same problems as hexavalent chromium.

A further disadvantage of the use of chromium is that the production thereof gives rise to a high rejection rate of produced parts.

This high rejection rate therefore increases production costs of the parts.

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