Production of Optical Quality Electroless Nickel (EN) Coating on Copper Substrate

Introduction

It is a material dependent and variable hardness technique suitable for the production of high quality coated metal optics. It is a group of coatings. The selection of type of electroless nickel should thus be made keeping in view its end applications. This coating is nanocrystalline with grain size of 10 -15 oA (1-1.5 nm) and the coating can be deposited with zero stress or slight compressive stress.

Metal and coated metal optics of both conventional and unconventional geometry are of particular importance in advanced astrophysical, directed energy weapons systems, lasers and alternative energy applications.

In defense applications, a few of the products that will require optical components and system are:-

• Fire control systems
• Pointer - trackers
• Forward Looking Infrared System (FLIR)
• Night Vision Systems
• Advanced surveillance device etc.

Both bulk metal and coated metal optical components are playing an ever-increasing role in the solution to these needs and requirements. By coated metal optics, we mean coatings applied by electroplating or electroless plating.

For further information please contact :

Head,
Technology Transfer & Collaboration Division,
Bhabha Atomic Research Centre,
Trombay, Mumbai - 400 085
Tel : 091-022-25505337/25593897
Fax : 091-022-25505151
E-mail : headttcd@barc.gov.in